The New York Mets' 2025 season was a rollercoaster ride that ended on a steep decline, leaving fans with a bitter taste. From being the top team in baseball to one of the least successful, the season's downturn was hard to swallow.
The Mets' struggles were evident as they lost six straight games, finding themselves down 6-0 against Jacob deGrom. After a promising start of 45-24, they stumbled to a 31-47 finish, outpacing only the Rockies, Twins, and Nationals. This wasn't just a slump; it was a complete unraveling.
The offseason was initially quiet for the Mets, with big names like Pete Alonso and Edwin Díaz moving on. However, they made a splash by trading for Milwaukee Brewers ace Freddy Peralta, alongside right-hander Tobias Myers, in exchange for top prospects Brandon Sproat and Jett Williams. This move signaled a commitment to strengthening their pitching rotation.
Yet, the 2026 season hinges on the performance of manager Carlos Mendoza. If he can't steer the team back on course, Francisco Cervelli could be waiting in the wings. Cervelli, who made waves by leading Team Italy to the semi-finals in the World Baseball Classic, is a familiar face in New York and could be an attractive option for Mets owner Steve Cohen.
This year is crucial for the Mets and Mendoza. The roster boasts strong offensive potential, but the pressure is on to translate that into wins.
If Mendoza can't deliver, the organization might look to Cervelli, especially considering the influence of star player Juan Soto, who signed a monumental 15-year, $765 million deal. Soto's voice could be pivotal in any managerial decisions moving forward.
In short, the Mets face a pivotal season. With changes on the horizon and a roster ready to compete, it's time to see if they can bounce back or if more shake-ups are in store.