The New York Mets made their first major offseason move by trading left fielder Brandon Nimmo to the Texas Rangers for second baseman Marcus Semien. This deal adds intrigue to the team's roster plans heading into 2026. Key goals include adding a frontline starter, rebuilding the bullpen and addressing the first base situation with free agent Pete Alonso.
The New York Mets completed their first significant offseason transaction on Monday, sending longest-tenured player Brandon Nimmo, their left fielder, to the Texas Rangers in exchange for second baseman Marcus Semien. This swap is viewed as an initial step in reconfiguring the roster, impacting positions like second base and left field.
Utility player Jeff McNeil, under contract through 2026, faces uncertainty. Trade rumors have linked him to other teams, and Semien's arrival displaces him from his primary role at second base. While Nimmo's exit opens left field, where McNeil has experience, his skills are better suited to the infield.
Despite the trade, the Mets' core offseason objectives remain focused on three areas.
Adding a Frontline Starter
The Mets possess rotation depth with veterans Sean Manaea, Clay Holmes, David Peterson and Kodai Senga, plus prospects Nolan McLean, Jonah Tong and Brandon Sproat, all of whom debuted in 2025. However, they lack a proven ace for stability, particularly after relying heavily on McLean in the second half of the season. President of baseball operations David Stearns typically avoids expensive free-agent pitchers, especially with question marks on top available arms. Trade targets like Detroit's Tarik Skubal and Milwaukee's Freddy Peralta are possibilities, though their availability is uncertain.
Rebuilding the Bullpen
New York's relief pitching underwent major changes, with eight of 11 pitchers who appeared in at least 15 games in 2025 no longer on the roster. Reed Garrett is sidelined for 2026 following Tommy John surgery. The bullpen ranked 15th in ERA at 3.93 and tied for fifth in blown saves with 27, buoyed by closer Edwin Díaz. After Díaz opted out, his return odds are '50-50,' per his comments. The Mets need a new closer and an eighth-inning right-hander, with only Huascar Brazobán as a notable healthy righty reliever. Interest has been reported in free agents Robert Suarez and Devin Williams.
Re-signing Pete Alonso or Finding a Replacement
Franchise home run leader Pete Alonso is a free agent after a two-year, $54 million deal with an opt-out following 2025. Now aiming for a longer contract ahead of age 31, his power has been vital since 2019. If not re-signed, alternatives include outfielders like Kyle Tucker or Cody Bellinger, which the Mets are considering per sources. Prospect Carson Benge offers internal outfield depth. Power hitter Kyle Schwarber is another option, though signing him would cost draft picks after he declined Philadelphia's qualifying offer.