Mets Face New Challenges as They Aim to Recapture 2024 Magic

FLUSHING, N.Y. — The New York Mets are entering the 2025 season with a mix of excitement and uncertainty as they strive to replicate the magic of their 2024 campaign. The Mets’ president of baseball operations, David Stearns, prioritized roster adjustments over the winter, focusing on enhancing the outfield and bolstering the pitching staff. Just before the team reports for spring training, they secured first baseman Pete Alonso, bringing back a key player from last season’s playoff run.

However, Stearns opted not to re-sign infielder Francisco Lindor, known for his viral hit “OMG” that became a Mets anthem in 2024. “No, that is not on the list,” he remarked with a smile when asked about re-signing Lindor. This decision, aimed at creating greater roster flexibility, signifies the departure from the scrappy 2024 squad that charmed fans and reached Game 6 of the National League Championship Series.

The 2025 team has retained much of its core but added new talent, including superstar Juan Soto, who was signed to a record-breaking contract, raising expectations among fans and analysts alike. “Last year the culture was created,” said shortstop Francisco Lindor. “It’s a matter of continuing it.”

Despite Stearns’ success—including five playoff appearances with small-market teams during his tenure—he acknowledges the unpredictability of team chemistry. “Culture is very important,” he said last weekend while discussing the challenges of maintaining the team’s positive environment. “It’s also very difficult to predict.”

While some aspects of the 2024 season were unique—like the unexpected popularity of mascot Grimace, who became a fan favorite after a memorable first pitch—there are hopes that the Mets can replicate their success. “I don’t know if what we did last year could be replicated because it was such a chaos-filled group,” reliever Adam Ottavino commented. He notes the importance of the team’s perception this season, suggesting that feeling like the underdogs might have played a role in their previous success.

In the early part of the previous season, the Mets struggled, hitting rock bottom with a 22-33 record by late May. However, a pivotal players-only meeting sparked a turnaround, leading to 67 wins in their final games. Recognizing the importance of team cohesion, players are proactively holding meetings during spring training this year in hopes of instilling a strong foundation for the season ahead.

“At the end of the day, we know who we are and that’s the beauty of our club,” Alonso stated. He believes the strength lies in their collective identity and interpersonal dynamics. “It’s not just who we are talent-wise but who each individual is as a man and a personality.”

The Mets are balancing aspirations of becoming perennial World Series contenders while also keeping things light-hearted. The team retains a humorous touch with initiatives like a commemorative Grimace seat at Citi Field and a new “Five Borough” race featuring borough-themed mascots at every home game. The commitment to innovative food offerings at Citi Field has earned the venue recognition as the best ballpark food in baseball for three consecutive years.

Mets starter Sean Manaea emphasized the importance of organic development in team culture. “I don’t know if you can force things,” he said, suggesting that rather than pushing initiatives, teams should nurture positive experiences and relationships among players.

As the Mets prepare for the new season, Stearns believes the key lies in fostering a positive environment and team unity. “It’s fluid,” manager Carlos Mendoza added regarding team chemistry. “But winning helps, clearly.” With significant challenges ahead, the Mets are determined to build upon last year’s success while navigating the new dynamics of their 2025 roster.