The New York Mets didn’t have much trouble putting runs on the board in 2025 - their offense was one of the most potent in the league. But as the season wore on, it became clear that the imbalance in their roster was holding them back.
While the bats were booming, the pitching staff and defensive unit just couldn’t keep pace. That disparity ultimately cost them a deeper postseason run, and now, with 2026 on the horizon, the front office has some work to do.
They’ve already made a splash by acquiring Marcus Semien to solidify the infield, but there’s still a glaring need in the outfield - particularly when it comes to defense. And that’s where Byron Buxton could come into play.
A potential trade for the Minnesota Twins All-Star would be a major swing for a Mets team clearly eyeing a win-now window. Buxton’s 2025 campaign was a reminder of just how dynamic he can be when healthy.
In 126 games, he posted a .264/.327/.551 slash line, with 35 home runs, 83 RBIs, 21 doubles, and 24 stolen bases. That’s not just production - that’s game-changing impact on both sides of the ball.
But Buxton’s value goes well beyond the numbers. He’s a Platinum Glove winner in center field, and his defensive presence would be a massive upgrade for a Mets team that struggled to convert batted balls into outs. With Buxton patrolling the outfield, pitchers get a little more breathing room, and the team as a whole becomes more balanced - something they sorely lacked in 2025.
From the Twins’ side, this kind of deal could signal a full commitment to a rebuild. Moving Buxton would be a tough call, but it opens the door for them to stockpile high-upside prospects and build for the future. If the return package is right - and it would have to be, given Buxton’s two-way value - this could be the kind of trade that benefits both clubs in very different ways.
For the Mets, it’s about shoring up a roster that’s already close. For the Twins, it’s about turning the page and investing in the next wave of talent. It’s a deal that makes baseball sense on both ends, and if talks gain traction, it could reshape the outlook for each franchise heading into 2026.
Bottom line: the Mets don’t need a total overhaul - they need targeted upgrades. Buxton fits that mold perfectly.
He’s the kind of player who can change the game with his glove, his bat, or his legs. And for a team that’s already built to score, adding someone who can help prevent runs might be the missing piece.