Mets Focused On First Base, Pitching Upgrades

Key Points:

• Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns indicated the team is confident in their second base options, citing Marcus Semien, Brett Baty, and several prospects nearing MLB readiness, with first base and pitching as primary offseason focuses.
• Semien struggled offensively and defensively in 2026 but remains under contract through 2028, while Baty showed improvement in the second half of 2026, providing some optimism for his role in 2027.
• Prospects Jefferson Rojas, Mitch Voit, and Émilien Pitre, all capable of playing second base, add depth, reducing the need for the Mets to pursue veteran free agents at that position.
• First base remains a concern after Jorge Polanco's injury-plagued 2026 season, with Jared Young offering a potential platoon option, though the Mets may seek a left-handed bat to complement him.
• On pitching, the Mets are targeting Tarik Skubal and exploring upgrades for the rotation and bullpen, while considering trading Kodai Senga, who has struggled but showed promise as a reliever and could attract interest if the Mets cover most of his contract.