The New York Mets‘ 2025 season ended in disaster. Despite having one of the highest payrolls in MLB, the team collapsed in the second half of the year and missed the playoffs
With more than $200 million already committed for 2026, president of operations David Stearns faces a crucial offseason. Here are the four essential moves the Mets must make to put failure behind them and become contenders again.
1. Renew Pete Alonso, the heart of the team
Pete Alonso is more than just a power hitter: he is the soul of the clubhouse. The slugger is coming off a season with 38 home runs, 41 doubles and an OPS of .871, his best mark since 2019. At 30 years old and after his fourth consecutive appearance in the All-Star Game, Alonso bet on himself by signing a one-year contract in 2025. That bet paid off, and now the Mets cannot afford to lose him, especially with the Yankees looking for a first baseman. Retaining him should be an absolute priority.
2. Rebuild the bullpen from scratch
The bullpen was one of the team’s biggest weaknesses. The acquisition of Ryan Helsley, the 2024 saves leader, proved to be a disaster, finishing with a 7.20 ERA in 22 appearances. Although he finished strong, the damage was already done. Ryne Stanek also failed to live up to expectations, with a 5.30 ERA in 65 games. Management must completely restructure the relief corps if it is to avoid another late-season collapse.
3. Define the direction of the starting rotation
The starting rotation is at a crossroads. Kodai Senga had a difficult end to the season, but his recent track record suggests he can still be a reliable piece. David Peterson and Clay Holmes also showed potential. However, the Mets must decide whether to rely on the development of their young prospects – three of their top five have already debuted in 2025 – or look for reinforcements in free agency, where names such as Chris Sale, Dylan Cease and Ranger Suarez could be available.
4. Improve the defense, at any cost
Defense was a constant problem. The Mets committed 19 errors in their last 29 games, and key players such as Juan Soto and Pete Alonso offered poor defensive performances. Although offensively they are untouchable, the team must find creative ways to improve its run prevention. This could involve position changes, new roles or even adjustments to the starting lineup. As Stearns said, “We have to be more open with the setup of our players.”
A decisive winter
The failure of 2025 left a deep mark on the organization. With a solid but underutilized talent base, the Mets have the opportunity to redeem themselves if they make bold and strategic decisions. Alonso’s continuity, a bullpen overhaul, clarity in the rotation and a stronger defense are the pillars to compete again. The clock is already ticking, and fans are waiting for answers.
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