The New York Mets finish their six-game road trip in Chicago this weekend. After sweeps by the Athletics and the Los Angeles Dodgers, the boobirds continue to circle. Not to mention the lack of performance from the newest members of the team.
While 7-12 is not a season-ender, a former general manager believes that current general manager David Stearns has the wrong mix of players in Queens. Jim Duquette, who ran the Mets front office from 2003 to 2004, appeared on the ‘Foul Territory” show to discuss the current issues.
“When they got booed off the field after being swept by the A’s, I think a lot of guys were stunned at how vociferous the fan base can be.”
After 19 games, the team had scored 65 runs, the fourth-worst in baseball. Additionally, the Mets bat collectively. 220, ranking fifth-worst in the MLB. Not to mention an on-base percentage of .286. In essence, the team, top to bottom, sits in a slump that continues, regardless of where they play. At the same time, per Duquette’s question, are the new additions built for New York?
“When they got booed off the field after being swept by the A’s, I think a lot of guys were stunned at how vociferous the fan base can be.”
Among the new group of players the Mets brought in, @JimDuquetteGM still has questions about who can and can’t handle New York. pic.twitter.com/gnPWO6hyPk
— Foul Territory (@FoulTerritoryTV) April 16, 2026
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Veteran Hitters Struggle, Exacerbating Issues
In the offseason, Stearns discussed the importance of defense. Apparently, that served as the motivation for trading Brandon Nimmo for Marcus Semien. Semien arrived with a World Series ring, Gold Glove, and Silver Slugger awards to his credit. However, despite his capable defense, the hitting stats seem to be missing.
According to Baseball Reference, Semien’s last two-plus seasons could signal a decline. In 2022, as a member of the Texas Rangers, he led the American League in hits (185) and runs (122). Since then, every offensive stat has fallen precipitously. This downturn could also coincide with Semien turning 36 on September 17.
GettyNew York Mets second baseman Marcus Semien.
Meanwhile, Jorge Polanco was initially asked to play first base, a position he had logged a grand total of zero innings in before this year. Polanco, according to reports, continues to battle foot and Achilles injuries. Compounding the problem is his inability to get around on the fastball.
To this point, Polanco has seen 105 fastballs, collecting two hits and striking out twice. Seeing your designated hitter with an .083 average against heaters is a cause for concern. After an ALCS appearance, hearing the Citi Field faithful jeer could have served as a shocking moment.
GettyMets designated hitter Jorge Polanco
Bo Bichette, after a brutal start, could slowly pull out of his slump. Of the three, at 28, he is the youngest. Also, the structure of his contract, pretty much three one-year deals, means that he needs to produce to cash by opting out. Early on, Bichette looks to attack right field more while at the plate.
In years past, the 28-year-old would pull the ball 28% of the time while sending 35% of his batted balls to right. Now, the Mets’ third baseman goes opposite field 45% of the time. More often than not, those become either lazy fly balls or grounders to second. Six months ago, Bichette and the Toronto Blue Jays stood a couple of outs away from a world championship. Now, every move is scrutinized.
Historical Example of Struggling
Mets fans of a certain age remember Bobby Bonilla; how could they not when his paycheck is remembered every July? However, Bonilla did hit 34 home runs in 1993 and was an All-Star. On the other hand, Jason Bay did not enjoy the city as much.
Bay, coming off a Rookie of the Year and Silver Slugger, signed a four-year, $66 million contract in 2009. In three seasons, Bay hit .234 with 26 home runs. The moment looked too big for him, and he admitted as such on two separate occasions.
GettyFormer New YokMets outfielder Jason Bay striking out during a September 12, 2011 game
“It’s tough, especially when the team is not playing up to what you want, and I’m fully aware that I’m a big part of the team.”
“I don’t really like the limelight.”
New York is not for everyone. The city shows love to those who produce and little forgiveness for those who don’t. There are no moral victories. Instead, there is a mandate to win. The Mets currently employ three players who need to turn things around. With a billionaire owner who is desperate for a championship and a fan base that demands one, the new arrivals may need to shelve their feelings and put bat to ball.
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