The New York Mets have had a very disappointing season. Steve Cohen, Billy Eppler, and the Mets’ front office decided to change the organization’s plans as a result, now setting their sights on contending in 2025.
This came to light after former-ace Max Scherzer was dealt to the Texas Rangers, the first of several moves in which the Mets traded established veteran players to top prospects that bolstered the Mets’ farm system. Scherzer spoke frankly with no holds barred, which came as a shock to Mets fans, reporters, and the organization alike.
Changing directions obviously means more than just trading for a bunch of prospects. Let’s look at five things the Mets can do this winter that fit into their new long-term plans.
Mets offseason move that fits into their new direction #1: Hire David Stearns
Steve Cohen has reportedly been interested in hiring former Milwaukee Brewers President of Baseball Operations (POBO) David Stearns for a couple of years now. Cohen wanted to interview Stearns two offseasons ago, but Brewers owner Mark Attanasio rejected that request.
Stearns stepped down from the POBO position in 2022, but is still in an advisory role with the Brewers, so he can not be reached until this offseason. He is a New York native who started his career in the Mets’ baseball operations department after graduating from Harvard University, so this would be a homecoming for him.
Stearns has built a reputation as one of the most-respected front office members in the game. He led the Brewers to playoff appearances from 2018-2021, and he has been highly coveted by the Mets and Astros since stepping down from the POBO role.
Billy Eppler would likely remain in the general manager role under Stearns, but there will probably be other personnel moves that Stearns would want to make…