Howie Kussoy from The Journal explores a few critical questions for the Mets as they head into the second half of the season.
Who would be impressed?
Making the decision to sell ahead of the August 3rd trade deadline seems quite straightforward now.
The Mets have the opportunity to enhance their prospects for 2027 and beyond by trading nearly anyone apart from their key players like Juan Soto and Francisco Lindor, as well as emerging young talents such as Carson Benge, AJ Ewing, and Nolan McLean.
This could include players like Luke Weaver, Clay Holmes, and Huascar Brazoban.
There are also free agents on the horizon, such as Freddy Peralta, AJ Minter, Brooks Reilly, and Tyron Taylor.
Who’s next?
Even though this season has been one of the most frustrating in the franchise’s history, the Mets have discovered some bright spots among young players like Benji, Ewing, McLean, Christian Scott, and Zach Thornton.
A series of strategic trades might create more openings on the roster, allowing for potential call-ups of pitchers Jonah Tong and Jack Wenninger, power-hitting first baseman Ryan Clifford, and outfielder Nick Morabito, among others.
Do you believe it?
If you think back to last season, the second half can be drastically different compared to what unfolded before the All-Star break. Soto might finish strong, perhaps even with MVP-caliber stats.
Meanwhile, Lindor’s performance was a letdown after missing 57 games and struggling with a .216 batting average. On the flip side, Bo Bichette has been impressive, hitting .315 since June 1st, and Marcus Semien along with Devin Williams have accumulated five All-Star appearances over the past decade.
Francisco Alvarez, at just 24 years old, still has the potential to emerge. The anticipated prospect for 2026 will likely be surrounded by many of the same teammates next season. A solid second half could revive some hope in what has been a disappointing year.
Second half schedule
July 16th, 18-19th: vs. Phillies
July 20th-22nd: at Brewers
July 24th-26th: vs. Dodgers
July 27th-29th: vs. Braves
July 30th to August 2nd: vs. Marlins
August 4th-6th: at Guardians
August 7th-9th: vs. Pirates
August 10th-12th: vs. Braves
August 14th-16th: vs. Nationals
August 17th-19th: vs. Padres
August 21st-23rd: vs. White Sox
August 25th-27th: vs. Brewers
August 28th-30th: vs. Astros
August 31st – September 2nd: at Rays
September 4th-6th: vs. Giants
September 7th – September 9th: at Marlins
September 11th-13th: vs. Yankees
September 14th-16th: vs. Orioles
September 17th-20th: vs. Phillies
September 22nd-24th: at Rangers
September 25th-27th: at Nationals
