Brief
Mets’ President David Stearns Blames Off‑Season Shake‑Ups for 74‑Win Season
Stearns attributes the Mets’ poor start to sweeping changes and signals a focus on pitching depth for the next season.
By Felo News Desk · Published
At a press conference on Monday at Citi Field, New York Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns said the club’s 74‑win season was a result of sweeping changes that created an “uncapped downside scenario.” He blamed a roster overhaul and an almost entirely new coaching staff for the early‑season collapse, noting that even a solid post‑trade‑deadline performance could not reverse the trend.
Stearns added that his priority remains “to put a winning team on the field every single year,” and that the starting rotation will be a key area of focus. He declined to comment on whether he would pursue left‑hander Tarik Skubal as a top free‑agent target, but said the Mets need to add to the top of the rotation and develop pitchers long‑term. He highlighted several prospects and current players who could fill roles: rookie Nolan McLean, home‑grown options Christian Scott and Zac Thornton, and Sean Manaea under contract for another season. Kodai Senga could serve as a starter or reliever, while Tylor Megill may return from Tommy John surgery rehab.
On the offensive side, Stearns said Brett Baty, who performed strongly in August and September, could receive regular at‑bats. He also noted that “really good minor‑league infielders” are knocking on the door, including top prospect Jefferson Rojas and Émilien Pitre, acquired from the Rays at the trade deadline.
Stearns concluded that the Mets still have a long way to go, but that the organization is committed to building a competitive team for the future.
Key facts
- Mets finished the season with 74 wins (nypost.com)
- Stearns blamed roster and coaching changes for the poor start (nypost.com)
- Stearns plans to strengthen the starting rotation (nypost.com)
- Prospects Nolan McLean, Christian Scott, Zac Thornton, and Brett Baty are potential rotation contributors (nypost.com)
- Kodai Senga could serve as starter or reliever (nypost.com)
- Tylor Megill may return from Tommy John surgery rehab (nypost.com)
Background
The Mets have struggled in recent years, and this season’s 74‑win record was the lowest for the franchise in the modern era. Stearns’ comments come after a series of high‑profile moves, including the departure of star first baseman Pete Alonso and the acquisition of several young prospects.
Why it matters
The Mets’ performance and future roster moves will affect their competitiveness in the National League East.
What happens next
The organization will conduct a managerial search after the season ends and continue to evaluate pitching talent.
Sources
- [1] nypost.com — originally reported as “David Stearns’ offseason of Mets change backfired — his first clues on plans to fix it”
