Jeff McNeil Reflects on Winning, Losing, and Athletics’ 2026 Outlook

The Oakland Athletics added veteran second baseman Jeff McNeil from the New York Mets in December, giving the team a proven presence in the infield to support a young and developing roster. McNeil, 33, brings years of experience in both competitive and struggling teams, and his perspective on team culture is expected to influence the Athletics as they head into spring training.

In a recent appearance on the “Locked on A’s” podcast, McNeil reflected on the differences between winning teams and those that struggle. Drawing on his time with the Mets, he noted that while the locker room environment is influenced by success, strong chemistry can persist even during tough seasons.

“I feel like a team that wins is gonna have a good chemistry,” McNeil said. “I feel like winning is just a great culture, and that’s sort of where you want to be. When you’re winning every single day, it’s fun to go to the ballpark. And when things start to spiral, it’s tough… Some people say you have a bad culture just because you’re not playing well. Last year, [the Mets], nothing wrong in the locker room… A lot of the guys got along extremely well… When you win, times are good. When you lose, times are bad.”

McNeil’s comments highlight the role of leadership and experience in shaping clubhouse culture, an area where the Athletics hope his presence will have an impact. With a roster full of young players ready to take the next step, McNeil’s insight into both winning and losing environments could be a stabilizing factor for Oakland in 2026.

1. Lessons from Winning and Losing

McNeil’s reflections underscore the contrast between teams that consistently compete and those that struggle to find success. According to the veteran, winning breeds a positive environment, making daily preparation and games enjoyable, while losing can create tension even in a close-knit locker room. His experience with the Mets provides a perspective that goes beyond wins and losses. Even in seasons where the team underperformed, McNeil emphasized that mutual respect and camaraderie among players can maintain a healthy culture. “Nothing wrong in the locker room… a lot of the guys got along extremely well,” he said. For younger Athletics players, McNeil’s approach can serve as a guide for navigating the highs and lows of a long season. Understanding that losing streaks don’t necessarily define team culture could help emerging stars maintain focus and motivation throughout the 162-game grind. Leadership from veterans like McNeil often extends beyond on-field performance. By modeling how to handle adversity, he can help Oakland’s young players develop the resilience necessary for sustained success and create a foundation for future winning seasons.

2. Athletics’ Young Core

Despite a 76-86 record in 2025 that left them fourth in the AL West, the Athletics are building toward a more competitive future. Much of the optimism comes from the development of young talent across the roster. Players like Nick Kurtz, Shea Langeliers, Tyler Soderstrom, Zack Gelof, Jacob Lopez, Jacob Wilson, and Lawrence Butler represent the team’s core building blocks. The 2026 season offers a chance for these players to take the next step in their progression. Each has shown flashes of potential, and the addition of McNeil could help accelerate their development by providing guidance in both preparation and in-game decision-making. Oakland’s focus appears to be on nurturing talent internally rather than relying solely on high-profile acquisitions. By combining young prospects with a seasoned veteran, the organization hopes to balance immediate competitiveness with long-term growth. While the team is not expected to contend immediately at the level of division leaders, the potential of this core group, guided by experienced players like McNeil, creates cautious optimism for fans and the organization alike.

3. Preparing for 2026

As spring training approaches, the Athletics will be focused on integrating McNeil into the lineup and maximizing the performance of their young core. The team’s strategy will likely emphasize development, versatility, and establishing a culture that encourages accountability and growth. McNeil’s versatility as a middle infielder and his major league experience provide a stabilizing presence both on the field and in the clubhouse. His approach to balancing fun with focus during tough stretches may help set the tone for the team’s work ethic and attitude throughout the season. The upcoming season will be a test for both McNeil and Oakland’s young players. Success may not solely be measured in wins, but also in the progression of the roster, individual growth, and the establishment of a positive culture under challenging circumstances. Ultimately, the Athletics hope that blending veteran experience with youthful energy will pay dividends in 2026. If McNeil’s leadership resonates and the young players continue to develop, Oakland could take significant steps toward becoming a more competitive franchise in the AL West.