NY Mets manager points at a different MLB trade deadline priority than many insiders

The New York Mets’ frustrating doubleheader loss turned into a perfect meme moment with three Spidermen all pointing at each other. Was it Carlos Mendoza’s choice to pull David Peterson? Ryne Stanek’s bullpen meltdown? Or the offense’s inability to come through in clutch moments? Fans argued endlessly on social media, each blaming different pieces for the missed chances that, by the end of the day, handed away the series.

After the game, Mendoza didn’t mince words when he called out the offense. The frustration extended beyond a single bullpen misstep or managerial move. With two aces set to return this weekend, the Mets’ biggest challenge isn’t on the mound but in the batter’s box. Until they add a reliable run producer, the team’s potential will remain limited despite improvements in the rotation.

The Mets’ recent struggles show that adding a power bat is the priority before the trade deadline, not pitching depth

In the doubleheader against the Orioles, the NY Mets managed a dismal 2-for-19 with runners in scoring position. While they did manage to score two runs on outs from Soto and Alonso in the first inning of Game 2, the missed opportunities with RISP continue to haunt the team. These struggles aren’t a new development; they have dogged the Mets all season long and remain their biggest offensive hurdle.

Had the Mets been able to capitalize in the first game and build a bigger lead than 1-0, the entire narrative of the day might have been different. Instead, the offense’s inability to deliver in clutch moments set the tone for an infuriating doubleheader loss. It’s clear that unless this problem is addressed, the Mets will keep slipping in tight games.

Many analysts, including Jeff Passan, have identified starting pitching as a key trade deadline need for the Mets. However, with Kodai Senga set to return from the injured list tomorrow, boasting a sterling 1.47 ERA and 70 strikeouts in 73.2 innings, starting pitching is not the team’s most immediate concern. Sean Manaea is trending toward a Sunday return, which would further solidify the rotation alongside Peterson and Holmes. Together, these four form a reliable starting core.

Still, solid pitching alone won’t carry the Mets this season. The offense remains the glaring weakness, a problem that has lingered for months and shows no signs of easing up. Whether it’s adding a true run-producing bat at third base, designated hitter, or centerfield, the front office must prioritize these needs if the team wants to overcome its struggles. Without addressing the lineup’s shortcomings, any improvements on the mound will be limited in their impact.

As the Mets gear up for a crucial stretch, the trade deadline looms as the moment to reshape their future. With pitching soon bolstered, the real test lies in upgrading an offense hungry for a game-changing bat. How the front office acts now could spark a surge toward first place or leave the team chasing in a tight division battle.