As a new era begins in 2026, the New York Mets have been busy this winter, reorganizing their squad and letting go of a number of familiar players.
Superstar outfielder Juan Soto, shortstop Francisco Lindor, and infielder Bo Bichette will still lead the team at the plate.
There hasn’t been a significant addition to the pitching rotation, which struggled beyond last year’s All-Star break. That implies the company thinks its internal resources can handle the burden.
The Mets may have already identified their ace in right-hander Nolan McLean, who became the team’s most dependable weapon late in the previous season, though it remains to be seen if that confidence is warranted.
The 24-year-old made his big-league debut in late August, and despite the intense competition, he flourished right away.
He established himself as one of the organization’s most promising young arms in 2025 with a 2.06 ERA, a 5–1 record, and 57 strikeouts in just 48 innings.
Naturally, McLean’s breakthrough has drawn attention to his offseason, when he plans to expand on the achievements of his first season.
In addition to the mound, McLean announced his marriage to longterm companion Avery in a joint Instagram post this winter, marking a significant personal milestone. Soto quickly sent his teammate a message congratulating him, writing, “Congrats bro! Huge admirer 🙏🏽🔥
The occasion highlighted Soto’s impact as the mainstay of the Mets lineup as well as the camaraderie within the clubhouse.
Soto had a great debut season in Queens. Last offseason, the 27-year-old left-handed hitter inked a record-breaking 15-year, $765 million contract, which he fulfilled in 2025.
He demonstrated his signature plate discipline by breaking the team record for walks in a single season with 127. With 38 stolen bases, he led the league, adding another dimension to his game.
In 160 games, Soto maintained his dominance at the plate with a batting average of.263, an on-base percentage of.396, an OPS of.921, 43 home runs, and 105 RBIs. Soto is the key to the Mets’ chances of winning in 2026.
