Mets Weigh Trade Options as Offseason Moves Loom

The New York Mets are entering a critical offseason that could shape the team’s trajectory for years to come. After a disappointing 2025 campaign, which saw the team fail to make the playoffs despite signing superstar Juan Soto to a record-breaking deal, questions abound about the roster’s direction.

Key decisions loom over several prominent players, including first baseman Pete Alonso, who is eligible for free agency, and closer Edwin Díaz, who has expressed interest in a contract extension. The Mets’ front office faces the delicate task of balancing short-term competitiveness with long-term planning.

Adding another layer of uncertainty, reports have emerged that the Mets are evaluating trade interest in utility player Jeff McNeil. According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, teams have shown interest in McNeil, who has one year remaining on what some consider an inflated contract.

McNeil’s versatility—he played five different positions during the 2025 season—combined with a productive year at the plate, has made him an appealing option for other clubs. As the Mets prepare for spring training in February, decisions regarding McNeil and other key players could signal the organization’s priorities moving forward.

1. Evaluating Jeff McNeil’s Trade Potential

Jeff McNeil, 33, has been a consistent contributor for the Mets, but his value this offseason is amplified by his unique combination of versatility and an expiring contract. During the 2025 season, he appeared at five different positions, demonstrating flexibility that could benefit a contending team. While McNeil is no longer in the prime of his career, he delivered a solid performance last season, posting his most efficient offensive numbers since 2022. That balance of experience, skill, and positional adaptability makes him a potential trade asset for teams seeking immediate reinforcement. Reports indicate that the Mets had previously entertained offers for McNeil during the 2025 season, though nothing materialized at the time. With one year remaining on his contract, the calculus for trading him now may be more favorable, particularly if the team seeks to free payroll or acquire younger talent. How the Mets handle McNeil’s future could serve as a bellwether for broader offseason strategy, revealing whether the organization plans to rebuild, retool, or maintain its current core.

2. Key Contract Questions: Alonso and Díaz

Beyond McNeil, Pete Alonso’s impending free agency represents one of the most significant decisions facing the Mets. Alonso, a former All-Star, has been a cornerstone of the lineup but could test the open market, leaving the team to weigh long-term investment versus salary flexibility. Closer Edwin Díaz is also in the spotlight, with reports suggesting he is interested in negotiating a contract extension. Retaining Díaz could provide stability at the back end of the bullpen, an area of ongoing importance for the team’s pitching strategy. Balancing the needs of these marquee players with the team’s overall payroll will be a central challenge for Mets management. The front office must navigate financial constraints while maintaining competitiveness in a demanding National League East division. Meanwhile, rumors about potential trades and free-agent acquisitions highlight the fluid nature of the Mets’ offseason. Each decision could have ripple effects, influencing both the present roster and future strategic direction.

3. Preparing for Spring Training and Beyond

As spring training approaches in February, the Mets will begin to finalize their roster plans while assessing player performance and readiness. These evaluations will inform not only opening day lineups but also longer-term planning for subsequent seasons. Front office officials are expected to weigh trade opportunities, contract negotiations, and potential free-agent acquisitions simultaneously, balancing immediate competitiveness with long-term sustainability. This complex juggling act underscores the high stakes of the upcoming offseason. For fans, the offseason represents a period of anticipation and speculation. Decisions regarding McNeil, Alonso, Díaz, and other players will shape expectations for the 2026 season and beyond. Ultimately, the Mets’ approach over the next few months will signal whether the team is positioning itself for a quick rebound or a longer-term strategic overhaul.