Jeff McNeil is officially heading west, and while the internet may be having a laugh, the former Mets All-Star is taking the high road. After a productive stint in Queens, McNeil has been traded to the Oakland Athletics-a move that adds another wrinkle to the Mets’ evolving offseason and gives the A’s a versatile, contact-first hitter with a Gold Glove pedigree.
Speaking with reporters on December 24, McNeil didn’t shy away from the reality of the situation. “It seems like the Mets are going in a different direction, so I knew it was a possibility,” he said.
“I’m super excited to be an A now. Definitely a crazy day yesterday, but I couldn’t be happier.”
That last line-“couldn’t be happier”-has become the internet’s favorite punchline. Social media, as it tends to do, pounced. Fans fired off jokes about the A’s current state, their temporary ballpark, and the idea of anyone being “excited” to join a team that’s been more known for its relocation headlines than its wins lately.
But strip away the sarcasm, and what you have is a veteran player embracing the next chapter of his career with optimism. McNeil, known for his gritty approach at the plate and defensive versatility, isn’t just saying the right things-he’s leaning into the opportunity. That kind of mindset matters, especially for a franchise like Oakland that’s in the middle of a rebuild and looking for clubhouse stability.
McNeil also made it clear he valued his time in New York. He spoke fondly of his years with the Mets, adding a personal touch to what is, at the end of the day, a business decision.
And while fans may be split-some nostalgic, some skeptical, some just here for the memes-the reality is that McNeil’s time in Queens was meaningful. He was a key part of the lineup, a sparkplug, and at his best, one of the toughest outs in the National League.
As for the A’s, this move signals a desire to bring in experienced, versatile players who can help stabilize a young roster. McNeil’s ability to play multiple positions and hit for average makes him a valuable piece, especially in a lineup that’s still trying to find its identity.
So yes, the jokes will fly. That’s part of the deal when a player goes from a big-market team to one in transition. But McNeil’s approach-grateful, grounded, and focused on what’s next-sets the tone for what could be a quietly impactful move.
And who knows? In a sport where chemistry and leadership matter just as much as raw numbers, McNeil might be exactly what the A’s need right now.