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NY Mets don't look ready to make the one move that could change the entire offseason

Several signs point toward this being the right move they'll be likely to pass on.
ByTim Boyle
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Sep 22, 2026; Arlington, Texas, USA; New York Mets left fielder Juan Soto (22) motions to the bench after he hits a single during the fifth inning against the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
Sep 22, 2026; Arlington, Texas, USA; New York Mets left fielder Juan Soto (22) motions to the bench after he hits a single during the fifth inning against the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

David Stearns doesn’t live his life in a box nor should he. While routinely roasted for the results by the New York Mets over the last two seasons, he hasn’t fallen into the trap of doing the same thing over and over again just yet.

An inevitable move for the Mets continues to lurk and yet the team has made zero indication they actually would nor should we expect them to. Two years into his mammoth contract, Juan Soto remains a defensive liability in the outfield. He was better in 2026 in the easier to defend left field in Queens. Still well below the standard of run prevention, a switch to first base is going to be a constant discussion.

If ever there was a time to do it, heading into the 2027 season is it.

Now would be the perfect time for the Mets to prepare a Juan Soto move to first base

A year removed from a failed first base plan where the best results came out of Jared Young, another position change might not sit well. It would start to feel like the Mets are chasing after their own tail in the post-Pete Alonso era. Stearns hasn’t cared much about perception as he doesn’t back down from what he believes in. Can we blame him? He should listen to others while making the decisions he feels are right.

The Mets didn’t sign Soto for his glove. He’s here to smash baseballs, work the count, and maybe set a few records. He lacks major moments. Statistically, he has been right where we’d need him to be.

It’s not all internal as to why a first base move would make sense. Their lack of stability at the position is only a part of the story. Soto suffering separate calf injuries in 2026 is a reminder he is not invincible. Would the need for less range on defense help keep him healthy?

This winter’s free agent class also happens to nudge the Mets closer to this type of move. If they are seeking a bat, no one would be better than one of the right-handed hitting corner outfielders. Whether it’s Seiya Suzuki, Randy Arozarena, or Ian Happ, there are appealing outfield options if the Mets had the room. Trades, as well, would provide them with far more choices than they’ll find at first base.

Soto to left field from right was a minor surprise right before spring training began for the 2026 season. A flip to first base would be more extreme and probably too quick of a full-time move. The Mets have done a lot to keep Soto happy. As long as his preference is the outfield, expect him to stick until they have to have the hard and blunt conversation.

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