MLB,Stearns stresses ‘sustainable competitiveness’ in Mets’ offseason plans

Stearns stresses ‘sustainable competitiveness’ in Mets’ offseason plans

  • MLB.com
  • Anthony DiComo
  • November 15, 2022

Billy Eppler’s first offseason as Mets general manager has been shaped by two guiding principles: fixing the bullpen and adding an impact bat to the lineup. But as the Winter Meetings approach next week in San Diego, the Mets’ brain trust is acutely aware of another imperative: building a foundation for sustained success.

“Sustainability is incredibly important to us,” Mets president Sandy Alderson said on Tuesday. “We don’t want to be a boom-bust operation. We want to try to maintain a high level of play, not just in ’23 but beyond that.”

In a wide-ranging conversation with MLB.com, Mets assistant general manager Ian Levin said that “sustainable competitiveness” is “at the forefront of everything we’re trying to do.”

“That means building a young, athletic core of players that can grow together over time,” Levin said. “It means building a strong farm system that can continue to produce players for the Major League club. And it means making smart, long-term decisions that will help the Mets stay competitive for years to come.”

The Mets have been moving in this direction since 2021, when they hired Alderson to oversee baseball operations and Eppler as GM. Alderson quickly implemented a plan to promote a culture of accountability and performance. Eppler, meanwhile, has focused on adding young talent to the organization, both through the Draft and via trade.

The results of these efforts were evident in 2022, when the Mets won 101 games and reached the National League East Division Series. The team’s young players, such as Pete Alonso, Jeff McNeil, Francisco Lindor and Starling Marte, all played key roles in the Mets’ success.

But the Mets still have some work to do before they can be considered a true World Series contender. The bullpen, which was a major weakness in 2022, needs to be addressed. The Mets also need to add another impact bat to the lineup, especially with Brandon Nimmo likely to sign elsewhere this offseason.

The Mets have been linked to several free agents this winter, including Justin Verlander, Carlos Rodón and Brandon Nimmo. They have also been rumored to be interested in trading for a player like JT Realmuto or Bo Bichette.

But no matter what moves the Mets make this offseason, they will be mindful of their long-term goals.

“We’re not looking to just make a splash this year and then fall off,” Levin said. “We want to build a team that can sustain success over multiple years.”

The Mets have the resources to do just that. They have a deep farm system, a lot of financial flexibility and a passionate fan base. Now it’s up to Alderson, Eppler and the rest of the front office to put the pieces in place for a sustainable run of success.


Stearns stresses ‘sustainable competitiveness’ in Mets’ offseason plans

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