The New York Mets are heading into a crucial offseason after a disappointing 2025 season, facing key decisions regarding player personnel and coaching staff [1, 6, 16]. The team's performance fell short of expectations, leading to questions about the future direction of the franchise [16, 17, 19]. Several factors, including injuries and underperformance, contributed to the Mets missing the playoffs, prompting a need for significant changes [16].
Coaching Carousel and Pitching Focus
One notable change involves the departure of pitching coach Desi Druschel, who is returning to the New York Yankees as an assistant to their pitching coach, Matt Blake [13]. This move leaves a void in the Mets' coaching staff, particularly concerning the implementation of data from their pitching lab in St. Lucie [2, 3]. The Mets have internal candidates who could potentially take over the role, emphasizing the importance of integrating data analysis with on-field coaching [2]. The team's focus on improving its pitching staff is evident, with potential interest in Freddy Peralta to bolster their rotation [19]. David Stearns, the president of baseball operations, acknowledged the need to address the pitching staff during his end-of-year press conference [19]. Meanwhile, the development of young pitchers like Christian Scott, who missed the 2025 season, has become a key factor for the Mets' future success [16, 18].
Alonso's Uncertain Future and Roster Decisions
Pete Alonso's future with the Mets remains uncertain as he approaches free agency for the second time in as many years [9, 11]. He has an opt-out clause in his contract and is likely to exercise it [11]. A projected massive contract of $182 million reflects his value [10, 11]. Several teams, including the Boston Red Sox and Philadelphia Phillies, are expected to contend for Alonso's services [1, 4]. The Phillies are seen as a particular threat to lure Alonso away from the Mets [1]. Alonso's free agency significantly impacts the Mets' roster construction [5]. The team also faces the challenge of potentially replacing Starling Marte and Cedric Mullins [5, 6]. With Marte entering the final year of his contract, the Mets must explore options in center field, considering both internal prospects and external free-agent options [5, 6]. Free agent options include Harrison Bader, Trent Grisham, and potentially Cody Bellinger [5]. Other roster considerations include the future of Luis Torrens, Francisco Alvarez, and other players [7]. The Mets may also explore trade options involving Jeff McNeil [7].
TL;DR
- The Mets are losing pitching coach Desi Druschel to the Yankees, creating a need to emphasize data-driven coaching [13, 2].
- Pete Alonso is likely to opt out of his contract and test free agency, with the Phillies and Red Sox among potential suitors [11, 1, 4].
- The Mets need to address their outfield situation, potentially replacing Starling Marte and Cedric Mullins through free agency or internal prospects [5, 6].
- Young pitchers like Christian Scott are crucial for the Mets' future, while the team is expected to be aggressive in adding impact talent this offseason [16, 19].