Speaking to reporters via Zoom following the Mets’ franchise-altering trade of Brandon Nimmo to the Rangers for Marcus Semien, president of baseball operations David Stearns discussed what could be next.
After thanking Nimmo for all he did in his 15 years in the organization, Stearns first talked about what the deal could mean for the outfield in 2026.
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“We think this opens up possibilities and flexibility for us going forward — both from a near-term perspective and also allowing space for a number of very young outfielders who are coming, who are talented, and will deserve spots at the major league level,” Stearns said. “And to play at the major league level. And this transaction also provides room for that to happen as we move forward.”
While Juan Soto is entrenched in right field, left field and center field are wide open.
New York recently avoided arbitration with Tyrone Taylor, who will be back next season. And while it’s possible Taylor begins the year as the regular center fielder, it’s also possible top prospect Carson Benge claims that job. Or that an external option (or two) is added.
Stearns also mentioned Jeff McNeil as someone who could be a contributor in the outfield in 2026, but seemed to be discussing it as more of a part-time thing.
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“I think it would be too early for me to really determine how our outfield alignment is gonna shape up,” Stearns added. “Clearly we’ve got Juan. Tyrone Taylor’s back with us, we’re very excited. We’ve got a number of young outfielders, including Carson Benge, who we think are gonna contribute at the major league level over the course of next year.
“As I mentioned, we think Jeff is a contributor at the major league level in the outfield next year. Jett Williams has seen some outfield time, and we believe can play well there. And we’ve seen that in the minor leagues. And then there is the opportunity for external acquisitions, and we’ve got a lot of offseason left to continue to be active in a variety of spaces to bring players in here. And I think we’ll have a better feel for what all of that looks like as we get much farther into the winter and ultimately into the spring.”
Regarding Williams and other second base options currently on the team, Stearns said he didn’t believe the Semien acquisition blocks their development, explaining that all of those players offer positional versatility.
Stearns also touched on the futures of free agents Pete Alonso and Edwin Diaz, reiterating that he would “love” for both of them to be back. And while he declined to discuss specifics when it comes to any negotiations the club is having with either player, Stearns was clear about New York’s ability and willingness to spend what it takes this offseason.
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Asked whether retaining both Alonso and Diaz and adding a “top flight” outfielder was possible, Stearns noted:
“I think our ownership group and Steve [Cohen] is very consistent that they’re willing to support what we think is right from a baseball perspective. Payroll space is not unending, but I’m also very confident that we’re gonna have the support we need and certainly the resources we need to put a very good team on the field.”
Pressed further on the potential that the Mets could sign Alonso, Diaz, and add a “top flight” outfielder, Stearns said yes.
“Sure. I think anything would be realistic right now.”
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