The executives of the team might hint at trading plans but generally prefer not to disclose too much. They understand that sharing details can help gauge how fans and the media respond to their strategies, which is crucial when emotions and scrutiny affect players who might feel easily replaceable.
However, with only ten days remaining until the trade deadline, David Stearns was quite candid recently. The Mets are in dire need of bullpen support, and it seems that help might soon arrive.
“We’ve dealt with several injuries within the pitching staff, especially to the bullpen,” said the Mets’ president of baseball operations on Monday. “We’re looking to bolster our bullpen.”
Initially, the Mets’ bullpen was a highlight of the team in the early season.
But, perhaps due to overwork, it’s now struggling with injuries and performance issues. Three pitchers, including AJ Minter, Danny Young, and Max Kranick, have had to undergo elbow surgery. Additionally, Jose Boto is sidelined due to illness.
Since June, the Mets’ bullpen has recorded a high number of innings, but their ERA has climbed to 5.26. This downturn reflects broader struggles within the team.
“There are always players available as the trade deadline approaches, so I expect we might make some moves,” Stearns remarked before the Mets faced the Angels at Citifield. “I think we’ll be involved in that process.”
While many teams are looking to enhance their rosters, the relief pitching market is notably dense compared to those for starting pitchers or impactful hitters.
Stearns might be eyeing Orioles pitcher Felix Bautista as a replacement for Edwin Diaz’s crucial role. There are also opportunities with other teams, like the Twins and Pirates, that may have players up for grabs.
According to Stearns, conversations about trades are alive throughout the league, but many teams remain undecided about their direction—whether to buy or sell. He anticipates that clarity will emerge soon.
Should the Mets, currently having a well-performing but not stellar roster, enter the deadline securing only a couple of relievers, it may cause some discontent among fans.
“I don’t think of it in terms of making a big splash,” Stearns stated, reflecting on July trades for various players. “At this point of the season, it’s a bit risky. We need to see how players coming back fit into our needs.”
“And as for major splash players in trades? Well, that’s still uncertain.”
Most sought-after players tend to be hitters, like third baseman Eugenio Suárez or pitchers such as Sandy Alcantara. Stearns expressed satisfaction with his current roster in both areas.
“Looking at our position players, I’d say I’m quite satisfied overall,” he noted.
He did mention that the Mets haven’t added much offensively in center field. Tyrone Taylor has been solid defensively but hasn’t brought much to the plate.
Still, Stearns values Taylor’s defensive skills and appreciates how Jeff McNeil has adapted.
“In the last couple of weeks, the expectations for improving our center field have likely shifted, considering Jeff’s growth,” Stearns said, feeling equally optimistic about their pitching rotation.
Kodai Senga and Sean Manaea are still working their way to consistency at the major league level, while Clay Holmes has struggled to reach six innings in his last several starts. Frankie Montas hasn’t managed it either since returning from injury. David Peterson remains a reliable option.
Stearns feels confident, however, asserting that the existing rotation can be strong enough for a playoff run.
“I’m optimistic about our five pitchers,” he said. “I genuinely believe they can lead us through the playoff series.”
