2 NY Mets rumors we wish came true, 2 we're glad never did

The New York Mets were quite active at the 2025 trade deadline. They went out and acquired outfielder Cedric Mullins, along with relief pitchers Gregory Soto, Ryan Helsley, and Tyler Rogers. Given they were buyers, the Mets were connected to more than just these four players during late July. Looking back on it, there are definitely some players we wish the Mets had decided to add, but there are others we're happy the Mets didn't fully pursue.

David Bednar would have been the better addition than Ryan Helsley

The Mets considered David Bednar as a potential trade target when they were looking to revamp the bullpen. At the time of the deal that sent Bednar to the New York Yankees, he was in the midst of an outstanding rebound season after a rough 2024. His first 38 innings of the year yielded a 2.37 ERA, 2.01 FIP, and 1.11 WHIP. He struck out about a third of opponents with a 33.1% K%, while having an above-average 6.5% walk rate. Bednar rarely allowed home runs either, with a 0.47 HR/9. At one point, he went about two months from May 24 through July 26 without allowing a single earned run.

The New York Yankees ended up acquiring Bednar for a three-prospect package. Since his arrival at the Mets' crosstown rival, Bednar has continued his strong campaign. He has pitched 17.2 innings since the deal, only allowing six earned runs and one home run. The right-hander continues to be a strikeout machine, with 33.8% K%, along with a respectable 8.1% walk rate.

The Mets were aggressive in their deadline approach for relievers, but they ended up with Ryan Helsley among their multiple acquisitions, whose time with the Mets has been nothing but a disaster. He has already allowed 16 earned runs with the Mets, more than Bednar has allowed all year, both during his time in Pittsburgh and New York. It's not as if the Mets surrendered much more for Helsley than the Yankees did to get Bednar, as both teams sent a three-prospect package for the two respective relievers.