David Sterns outlined a defense-first off-season for the Mets, stressing run prevention, improved fielding, and a proactive plan to fortify the rotation. He reiterated the value of Pete Alonso and Edwin Diaz, signaling Alonso could split duties at first base and DH while Diaz remains a cornerstone closer as the bullpen is rebuilt.

Internally, Sterns flagged Jet Williams, Ronnie Mauricio, and Mark Vientos as part of the solution but warned youth alone isn’t enough to win next year. The message: balance defense with offense, stay aggressive on pitching, and move decisively to deliver a smarter, deeper roster tailored to a post-season push.

The Mets face a pivotal offseason: balance defense and offense without gutting a potent core. Nimmo could be a payroll lever, while Lindor's sometimes shaky defense creates a trade/position-change debate. Alonso and Soto anchor the lineup, with internal options like Vientos and McNeil in the fringe. The plan centers on improving run prevention and defensive leverage rather than an all-out rebuild.

The path forward aims to keep Alonso-Soto intact, shore up the infield defense, and possibly deploy a defensive DH. Expect gradual roster reshaping—moving a core piece or two if it unlocks defensive upgrades—while preserving enough offense to contend in 2025.