Last year, the New York Mets were only two games away from making it to the World Series for the first time since 2015. Following a six-game loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers, general manager David Stearn made amends by inking Juan Soto to a 15-year contract for $765 million. His inclusion on the New York roster has helped the squad get off to a fantastic start in 2025. This season, the club is once again competing with the Philadelphia Phillies for the top slot in the National League East.
As the season proceeds, New York will continue doing everything they can to duplicate last year’s accomplishment. As the deadline draws nearer, the team may be active on the trade market and is considering all of their roster options.
One month into the season, ESPN analyzed every club, and the Mets garnered one of David Schoenfield’s highest ratings. The crew isn’t flawless, though. With Frankie Montas and Sean Manaea on the Mets’ disabled list, their starting rotation could use some more experienced players, and reliever Ryne Stanek is going through a difficult time.
In order to cover the roster vacancies and compete for a championship in 2025, the Mets may want to look at these three players.
St. Louis Cardinals Reliever Ryan Helsley
Helsley’s name is circulating in trade speculations this year. Additionally, he is not the only Cardinal who may be traded this summer. Other veterans on the roster who may be traded for younger assets are Sonny Gray and Nolan Arenado. Although St. Louis is now trading at.500, they may be willing to sell high on their older players after a notable losing run. Helsley has the most to offer league contenders, but all three may still help a contender.
Helsley’s name is among the league’s top closers after he more than doubled his career-high save total of 49 last season. His start to his sixth professional season has been mediocre, though, since he isn’t getting as many opportunities at the conclusion of games for the Cardinals. As a result, his price tag may be slightly less than anticipated, which will attract competitors.
With Edwin Diaz, the Mets already have their man. However, the organization could be searching for insurance options if the New York closer has a serious injury. He can be a crucial setup man for Carlos Mendoza even if Helsley doesn’t replace him as the starting bullpen pitcher. Success depends on managing the conclusion of games, and the Mets could use some improvement in this area.
Minnesota Twins Pitcher Pablo Lopez
As the Twins accept that they are far from contending in the American League, Lopez’s name is also frequently mentioned in trade deadline discussions. However, the team’s ace isn’t the reason for their season-opening difficulties. Despite having one of the greatest ERAs among Minnesota’s starters, he does not have enough runs to warrant his influence on the field.
Lopez, a former All-Star who can head a rotation, is 29 years old. The Twins aren’t in a position to utilize him to the fullest extent this season, which is unfortunate for him. But for teams hoping to sign him, the first half of his season may be added to his scouting report.
If Lopez is available, a lot of clubs would be interested, including the Mets. Mendoza would love to have someone to lean on, while Manaea and Montas are still recuperating from their injuries. Although Kodai Senga has persevered greatly for New York this season, Lopez’s help would be greatly appreciated by the depth behind him.
Atlanta Braves Outfielder Jarred Kelenic
Following a difficult start to the 2025 season, the Braves sent Kelenic to the minor leagues. But if he breaks out of his funk, the veteran can add some pop to a team’s outfield. Whatever he is facing, Kelenic is sure he can overcome it. Teams will visit Atlanta to test the waters if he does.
Although the Braves’ outfield isn’t finalized, Alex Verdugo, Michael Harris II, and Ronald Acuna Jr. make a strong trio. Although it is quite uncommon, trading with a division competitor would be a rare win-win situation. If Mendoza want to give the Mets outfielders a day off, Kelenic may spell any of them and can position himself behind Brandon Nimmo on the field.
Although the Mets are among the top teams vying for the championship, they still have a lot of work to do to catch up to the Dodgers. But for the duration of the month, the squad is off to a strong start. They are also really upset since they have to make it back to the World Series for the first time in ten years.
