What's next for the Mets? How MLB's most disappointing team can turn things around for 2027

Key Points:

• The New York Mets, despite having baseball's second-highest payroll, were eliminated from postseason contention for the second straight year, with injuries and poor offseason acquisitions significantly contributing to their struggles.
• Key offseason signings such as Bo Bichette and Jorge Polanco underperformed, with Polanco notably being a costly error as a replacement for Pete Alonso, who left due to age and contract demands.
• Positive developments include strong performances from rookies Nolan McLean, Carson Benge, and A.J. Ewing, as well as the return of Christian Scott from injury, providing a foundation for the team's future.
• Defensive issues remain a major concern, especially in the infield, where poor positioning and declining performances have made the Mets one of the worst defensive teams in baseball, necessitating significant changes despite contractual constraints.
• The Mets face critical offseason decisions, including the potential pursuit of ace free-agent pitcher Tarik Skubal to bolster their rotation, though the front office's reluctance to commit to long-term pitching contracts may complicate such efforts.