Mets Owner Steve Cohen Reiterates Support for Beleaguered President of Baseball Operations Amidst Challenging Season

David Stearns, the New York Mets' president of baseball operations, finds himself at the center of fan dissatisfaction as the team navigates a challenging season. However, owner Steve Cohen has publicly voiced his unwavering support for Stearns, indicating he will remain in his role for the full duration of his contract.

Stearns, who assumed the leadership position in the Mets' baseball operations in 2024, has faced considerable scrutiny. This comes after the team's significant decline last year, following what was described as a collapse despite a strong record, and their current 36-50 standing. While manager Carlos Mendoza, who also joined the club in 2024, was dismissed last week, Cohen stated that Stearns' tenure will continue through his contract, which is set to expire in 2028. Mendoza's contract was due to conclude at the end of the current season.

Cohen Prioritizes Stability Over Frequent Changes

“We’re two and a half years into a contract. Everyone forgets — does he get any credit for ’24? Does that not count? We almost made it to the World Series. And that was just two years ago. It’s a mixed record,” Cohen explained during an appearance on the New York Post's “The Show” podcast. “I’m not gonna say it’s going great, but it’s too early to really make evaluations. And I feel really strongly that if we’re going to burn and churn, that’s a terrible place to be. Every time you burn and churn, guess what, the next time nobody wants to come. Is someone going to put their career in your hands if you’re going to be short term-oriented?

“I have a contract. It’s a five-year contract. And we’re going to live that contract out.”

Cohen's comments underscore a philosophy of long-term commitment and stability, contrasting with a rapid turnover approach. He highlighted the potential negative impact of frequent leadership changes on attracting future talent.

Team Performance and Roster Adjustments Under Scrutiny

The Mets' current struggles are particularly striking given their substantial financial investment, boasting the largest payroll in Major League Baseball at nearly $330 million. An early 12-game losing streak in April proved difficult to overcome, setting a challenging tone for the season.

Following the team's downturn last year, the initial report indicated that Stearns initiated an extensive roster overhaul. According to the same report, the Mets had opted to let go of key players such as Pete Alonso and Edwin Diaz via free agency, and traded Jeff McNeil and Brandon Nimmo. Conversely, the report detailed the acquisition of players including Jorge Polanco, Luis Robert, Bo Bichette, Devin Williams, and Luke Weaver.

The performance of these reported acquisitions has been mixed. Polanco has not played since April 14, and Robert since April 26. Bichette, according to the report, is on track for what would be the worst full season of his professional career. Williams, who was noted for struggling with the New York Yankees last season, holds a 4.13 ERA. A lone positive mentioned in the report is Luke Weaver, who has maintained a 2.00 ERA.

Team statistics further illustrate the Mets' difficulties across various facets of the game. Their offense ranks as the second-worst in the league with an on-base plus slugging (OPS) of .673. Starting pitchers have collectively posted a 4.75 ERA, placing them fourth from the bottom. Defensively, the team has committed the third-highest number of errors in the league, despite an offseason strategy reportedly focused on