The New York Mets are aiming for a rebound after a disappointing end to last season. At one stage they held the best record in MLB, but a dramatic late-season slump caused them to miss the playoffs.
Jeff Passan of ESPN described the team’s downfall as more than just a collapse, calling it a complete “disintegration.”
After starting the year 45–24, the Mets went just 31–47 down the stretch, a record better than only the Colorado Rockies, Minnesota Twins, and Washington Nationals during that period.
The slide erased their playoff hopes despite their strong start.
For much of the offseason, New York appeared quiet in the market. However, the club finally made a notable move in late January by trading for center fielder Luis Robert Jr. from the Chicago White Sox, adding a player known for elite defense and significant offensive upside as part of their roster rebuild.
The Mets may still explore additional deals, particularly if they target Masataka Yoshida from the Boston Red Sox. According to Chris Landers of FanSided, New York lacks a clear long-term solution at right field or designated hitter, and Yoshida could fill either role while strengthening the lower portion of the lineup.
Meanwhile, Mark Vientos has struggled to consistently produce with the Mets, and Boston could eventually consider moving an outfielder.
A trade centered on Yoshida might benefit New York by giving the lineup more stability and proven production.
The Mets have shown they are willing to pursue bold trades if they believe it will improve the team, and the organization hopes such moves can help them challenge for the National League East title again after several years without winning the division.
