Stearns confronted a Mets season defined by run prevention failures and injuries, with an unfolding rotation collapse after a strong start. No true ace materialized; Senga, Manaea, Montas and others dealt with injuries, while rookies filled innings but couldn’t sustain length. A late Mullins addition and bullpen depth didn’t fix the core issues. Alonso’s impending free agency and Soto’s megadeal shape the winter mood. Stearns vows a flexible offseason focused on development, defense, and staff, with Mendoza returning at the helm.