In what can only be described as a turbulent season for the New York Mets, the team finds themselves in a familiar pattern of inconsistency, much to the chagrin of their devoted fanbase.
The Mets’ journey through the 2024 MLB season has resembled a rollercoaster ride of highs and lows, leaving their loyal fans with a sense of frustration and uncertainty about the team’s future.
The Mets’ season got off to a rocky start as they stumbled to an 0-5 record. However, they quickly turned things around, winning 12 of their next 15 games, igniting hope among fans.
Yet, just as optimism began to take hold, the team hit another rough patch, dropping 15 of their last 22 games.
This seesawing performance has resulted in a middling 20-23 record, leaving them closer in standing to the cellar-dwelling Miami Marlins (13-32) than the division-leading Philadelphia Phillies (31-14).
The disappointment among Mets faithful is palpable, particularly after a nightmare 2023 season and owner Steve Cohen’s declaration of playoff aspirations on Opening Day.
“I think the goal is to make the playoffs … If we don’t make the playoffs, obviously I’d be disappointed,” Cohen said at the start of the season.
His comments made things extra frustrating for Mets fans due to the fact that, despite being the richest owner in all of baseball, Cohen largely sat on his hands the entire offseason and did virtually nothing to improve the team.
Now, amidst the team’s struggles, an X post from Cohen has added fuel to the fire…
In response to a fan suggesting a roster overhaul, Cohen’s (now-deleted) post hinted at potential moves closer to the trade deadline.
“All in the future, not much we can do until the trade deadline,” the post read.
This led to speculation that the Mets could once again opt to trade veterans for prospects, a strategy employed last season.
Cohen, however, sought to clarify his remarks in an interview with SNY, emphasizing his belief in the team’s ability to turn things around and make a postseason push.
“I believe in this team,” Cohen said. “I believe in the back of the baseball card. It’s way too early to speculate on anything. It’s May 16.”
“I expect to make the playoffs. I know the fan base is frustrated, but it’s still early. We’re still very capable of making the playoffs. I fully expect to make the playoffs,” he added.
While Cohen’s explanation attempted to quell concerns, some remain skeptical.
The timing of the post and subsequent deletion raised eyebrows, with questions lingering about the team’s direction and mindset.
Cohen’s apparent attempt at damage-control only made matters worse for his loyal fan base.
Despite the mediocre start, the fact of the matter is we’re still very early in the season. Anything can happen.
Although, let’s be honest, the NL East is absolutely loaded. So, if we’re looking at the big picture realistically, it would be a shock if the Mets were looked upon as legitimate contenders come late in the season.
Axelrod, I mean Cohen, is clearly one of the smartest people in the world – and that’s no exaggeration.
However, his tenure as Mets owner – at least to this point – can only be classified as an enormous disappointment.
In many ways, it seems like he’s punting on this season and taking a “one step back to take two steps forward” approach.
The question is: How long will it take for the Mets to finally become legitimate World Series contenders???