Overview
- The confirmed deal sending Jeff McNeil to the Athletics follows offseason exits by Pete Alonso and Edwin Díaz and the Brandon Nimmo trade, with reporting describing a deliberate culture reset.
- The Mets have added veterans Marcus Semien, Jorge Polanco, Devin Williams and Luke Weaver while preserving payroll flexibility for targeted moves.
- Club officials intend to add an everyday outfielder without a long commitment, monitoring top names like Cody Bellinger or Kyle Tucker if prices soften, with lower-cost options such as Austin Hays also reported.
- Starting pitching remains a priority for a high-end or innings-stable addition on manageable terms, with free agents such as Framber Valdez, Ranger Suárez and Zac Gallen still on the market.
- Prospect timelines are central to the plan, with Carson Benge and Jett Williams tracking for roles and young arms like Nolan McLean and Jonah Tong in the mix, while Oakland GM David Forst says the A’s will use internal options at third base and pursue rotation upgrades after acquiring McNeil.