By Sunday 
Key misses in the Mets’ offseason could haunt them in the upcoming season.
The New York Mets have been active this offseason, making headlines with high-profile signings like Juan Soto and securing pitching depth. However, despite their efforts, some free agents who could have been game-changers slipped through their fingers. These missed opportunities may become glaring weaknesses as the season progresses.
Joc Pederson: A Power Bat the Mets Needed
The Mets’ decision to re-sign Jesse Winker as a left-handed DH option over Joc Pederson could backfire. Pederson, who signed a two-year, $37 million deal with the Texas Rangers, is coming off a career-best season. His .275/.393/.515 slash line, 23 home runs, and .904 OPS underscored his elite hitting capabilities, particularly against right-handed pitchers.
While Winker carries potential, his metrics pale compared to Pederson’s elite exit velocity, barrel rate, and isolated slugging. With Pete Alonso’s future uncertain, Pederson’s ability to provide middle-of-the-order power would have been invaluable. Opting for a riskier choice in Winker might leave the Mets lacking the offensive firepower they’ll need in crucial moments.
Walker Buehler: A High-Ceiling Gamble They Didn’t Take
After undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2022, Walker Buehler’s 2024 return was shaky, with a 5.38 ERA and home run issues. Yet, the Mets could have benefitted from his potential upside. Buehler, who signed for $21.05 million with the Dodgers, showed flashes of his former self with solid velocity and above-average batted-ball stats.
Instead, the Mets gambled on Frankie Montas and Clay Holmes, players with similar risks but arguably lower ceilings. Buehler’s past as a Cy Young contender offered a higher reward that could have bolstered the Mets’ rotation. Missing out on Buehler might prove costly if their rotation struggles to find consistency.
Jose Leclerc: A Bullpen Weapon They’ll Regret Losing
The Mets’ bullpen, while serviceable last season, lacked standout depth. Adding A.J. Minter was a strong move, but missing out on Jose Leclerc leaves a gap in their right-handed relief options. Leclerc, now with the Athletics on a one-year, $10 million deal, had solid peripherals in 2024, including a 30.9% strikeout rate and encouraging advanced metrics like a 3.26 SIERA.
Reed Garrett currently stands as the Mets’ top right-handed setup man, a position that could have been strengthened with Leclerc’s experience and effectiveness. His ability to handle high-leverage situations would have provided much-needed support for closer Edwin Díaz.
Missed Opportunities Could Prove Costly
While the Mets made significant moves this offseason, their failure to secure Pederson, Buehler, and Leclerc could leave noticeable gaps in their lineup, rotation, and bullpen. Each of these players addressed a specific need the Mets had, and their absence might expose weaknesses that could derail their season goals. Only time will tell if these offseason misses come back to haunt the team.