The New York Mets’ disappointing season is not just about talent; it’s also about chemistry, leadership, and a lack of focus on defense. A team that was expected to be one of the top contenders for the World Series title fell short, despite having one of the highest payrolls in baseball.
The Mets’ failure to reach the postseason was a surprise to many, given their strong start to the season. However, it became clear as the months went by that something was amiss. The team struggled with injuries, and their defense was a major issue. Despite having two All-Star players in Juan Soto and Francisco Lindor, the Mets’ pitching staff never came together.
The team’s leadership dynamic also changed this year, with Soto being more business-like than Lindor. While Soto is an incredible talent, his leadership style may not mesh well with the rest of the team. The Mets’ veteran players, including Brandon Nimmo and Pete Alonso, felt that the team was missing a sense of urgency and drive.
The Mets’ defense was a major problem all season long. They allowed more unearned runs than any other team in baseball, and their pitching staff struggled to turn ground balls into outs. Despite having individual improvements from players like Brett Baty and Jeff McNeil, the collective regression was unmistakable.
The team’s decision to bring back Sean Manaea and Kodai Senga too early also contributed to their struggles. The two pitchers had not performed well in the past, and their return hurt the team more than it helped.
As the season came to a close, the Mets realized that they needed to fix their defense and find a new leadership dynamic. David Stearns, the president of baseball operations, faces a tough challenge this winter, as he tries to rebuild the team’s pitching staff and improve its defense.
The Mets’ disappointing season serves as a reminder that talent is not enough; chemistry and focus are also crucial for success in baseball. The team will need to make some significant changes this winter if they want to return to contention next year.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6672509/2025/09/29/mets-mlb-collapse-mendoza-soto-lindor