Steve Cohen Sends Strong Message to Mets Players as Spring Training Begins
As the New York Mets open spring training, team owner Steve Cohen has set the tone for the upcoming season with a firm declaration: “We’ve got to make the playoffs; that’s the minimum.” The message, delivered with Cohen’s trademark directness, underscores the high expectations surrounding the franchise as it looks to bounce back from a disappointing 2023 campaign.
Raising the Bar
Cohen’s statement leaves no room for ambiguity—merely competing is not enough. The Mets, who finished last season well below expectations despite boasting one of the highest payrolls in Major League Baseball, are under immense pressure to deliver in 2024. Cohen, a billionaire hedge fund manager who purchased the team in late 2020, has consistently expressed his commitment to turning the Mets into a perennial contender.
“We owe it to the fans, to the city, and to ourselves to be playing baseball in October,” Cohen said. “We’ve invested in this team, and now it’s time to get results.”
Offseason Moves and New Leadership
In response to last season’s struggles, the Mets made several significant changes during the offseason. David Stearns was brought in as the team’s new president of baseball operations, marking a major shift in the front office. Stearns, who previously helped build the Milwaukee Brewers into a consistent playoff team, is expected to implement a more sustainable and strategic approach to roster building.
On the managerial front, Carlos Mendoza steps into the dugout as the Mets’ new skipper. Mendoza, who spent years as a coach with the New York Yankees, replaces Buck Showalter and will be tasked with getting the most out of a roster that, despite some losses, still boasts considerable talent.
Key Players Under the Microscope
Several Mets players will be under intense scrutiny this season. Star shortstop Francisco Lindor, a cornerstone of the team, will be expected to lead both on and off the field. After a solid 2023 season, Lindor remains central to the Mets’ hopes of making a deep postseason run.
First baseman Pete Alonso, in a contract year, will also be a focal point. The slugger has been one of the league’s premier power hitters, and his performance this season could determine his long-term future with the organization.
The Mets’ pitching staff, which underwent notable changes, will need to step up as well. Kodai Senga emerged as an ace last season, but with the departures of Max Scherzer and Justin Verlander, the rotation lacks proven depth. Newly signed arms will need to rise to the occasion if the Mets hope to compete with National League powerhouses such as the Atlanta Braves, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Philadelphia Phillies.
A High-Stakes Season
Cohen’s declaration signals that patience is wearing thin. While he has previously emphasized long-term stability and sustainable success, the owner clearly expects immediate progress. For a team with the financial resources and fanbase of the Mets, another underwhelming season would be unacceptable.
“We’re not here to rebuild forever. We’re here to win,” Cohen asserted. “That means everyone has to be locked in from day one.”
With spring training officially underway, the Mets have their marching orders. Now, it’s up to the players and coaching staff to prove that last year’s struggles were a fluke and that this team is capable of making Cohen’s vision a reality. The 2024 season will be a defining one for the franchise, and the pressure is on to deliver.
For Mets fans, the message is clear: October baseball is not just a goal—it’s the standard.
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