The New York Mets are evaluating their offseason approach amid questions about their standing compared to last year. General manager David Stearns faces key decisions on the rotation, while priorities include retaining key players and bolstering defense.
As the Mets look ahead to the 2026 season, columnist Joel Sherman examines whether the team is worse off than one year ago and outlines the challenges David Stearns must address to build a contender. Sherman highlights the need for strategic moves in free agency and trades to regain competitiveness.
MLB.com's Thomas Harrigan details four potential approaches for Stearns to rebuild the Mets' rotation this offseason, emphasizing the importance of pitching depth after recent inconsistencies. Former Mets manager Carlos Beltrán, speaking to SNY’s Chelsea Sherrod, identified retaining closer Edwin Díaz and first baseman Pete Alonso as top priorities, alongside improving the team's defense to address vulnerabilities exposed in 2025.
In the National League East, the Philadelphia Phillies are fielding trade interest in their left-handed relievers, per Matt Gelb of The Athletic. The Phillies hope to keep designated hitter Kyle Schwarber but have indicated they won't pursue starting pitcher Ranger Suárez, who is expected to sign elsewhere. Meanwhile, Federal Baseball discusses options for the Washington Nationals to overhaul their bullpen.
Broader MLB notes include youth movements in the DMV region, with Paul Toboni and Blake Butera in their 30s and new Baltimore Orioles manager Craig Albernaz at 43. MLB.com analyzes offseason questions for 2025 playoff teams that missed the World Series, while free agent right-hander Dustin May reports his elbow feels fully normal after neuritis issues late in the season.
On this date in Mets history, the team's iconic skyline logo was unveiled in 1961.