Make no mistake: New York Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns has heard all the criticism since the start of the offseason.
It’s impossible to escape such pressure, especially when it comes from those close to you.
But after saying goodbye to slugger Pete Alonso and star tight end specialist Edwin Diaz before Christmas, an unfazed Stearns remains committed to his vision for 2026 and beyond.
“Obviously this off-season has seen a lot of changes. Some have been particularly difficult,” Stearns said Tuesday during a lunch at Citi Field with reporters covering the Mets.
“I certainly understand that there were some frustrating elements for our fans during the off-season. We are not blind. I’m not blind. I hear them. I recognize it. I’ve heard it from friends and family sometimes. I am also confident that we are doing the right thing for our organization to accomplish our goals of having a team that consistently makes the playoffs. A team that is a World Series contender every year,” he added.
In addition to the departures of Alonso and Diaz to the free agent market, Stearns traded outfielder Brandon Nimmo and veteran Jeff McNeil, two players who began their careers with the Mets.
The club also awarded a three-year, US$51 million contract to end-of-game specialist Devin Williams, a two-year, $40 million pact to infielder Jorge Polanco and a two-year, $22 million deal to reliever Luke Weaver.
Looking to improve its defensive game, the team also acquired second baseman Marcus Semien from the Texas Rangers in exchange for Nimmo.
“It wasn’t hard for me to stay patient and stick to my principles,” said Stearns, who grew up in New York. I was a Mets fan. I love the Mets. I am determined to accomplish this mission in a way that ensures our long-term success. That’s why I’m here. »
“So this final goal, this aspiration and this motivation allows me not to be influenced by the desire for short-term success. As pressing as these desires may be, and especially as loud as they may be in this city, I understand perfectly our task, our mission, and I believe that we are on the right path to achieve it. »
Also looking for a star hitter to back up Juan Soto, the Mets are reportedly among the teams courting free agent Kyle Tucker, who had a .266 batting average with 22 homers and 73 RBIs in 136 games with the Chicago Cubs last season.
The Los Angeles Dodgers and Toronto Blue Jays are also believed to be in the running.
The Mets finished last season with an 83-79 record and missed the playoffs despite owner Steve Cohen being on track to spend $431 million, payroll and luxury tax combined.
“What we did before was not enough,” insisted Stearns. We all know it. We must do better. We have elite players. Our development system is very good. And we have a very good team today who will be even better in the first match. »
