Mets President gives major career update on Jeff McNeil ahead of 2025 season
Jeff McNeil was a big part of the New York Mets success this season. Through 129 games in the regular season, he hit .238/.308/.384 with 12 home runs and 44 runs batted in.
Not only was he getting the job done at the plate, but his versatility also played a big role in the team's success. He split his time between second base and the outfield and held both positions down.
McNeil will likely be used in a much similar role for the 2025 season. President of Baseball Operations David Stearns has detailed his plans for the slugger next year.
"Well, the great thing about Jeff [McNeil] is he can play a bunch of different positions, and for a majority of this year, he was our second baseman. I'd be comfortable with him in that role again," Stearns said on Tuesday.
Stearns feels comfortable with McNeil getting most of the reps at second base, but he could still see some games in the outfield.
"If we need to flex him somewhere else, we'll cross that bridge as well" Stearns added.
Jeff McNeil's playing time is not the only decision the Mets need to make over the winter
While Jeff McNeil's playing time seems to be hashed out, the front office still has much to do. They have a few key pieces they are in danger of losing in free agency, but none bigger than Pete Alonso.
The Mets offered him a qualifying offer to stay in New York next season, but the chances of him taking that are slim. He knows his worth and is searching for a big-time contract.
Alonso is coming off a season where he played in all 162 regular-season games. During this stretch, he hit .240/.329/.459 with 34 home runs and 88 runs batted in. During the postseason, he remained hot, mashing four home runs.
The club is also in danger of losing pitcher Sean Manaea. Manaea became increasingly effective after dropping his arm angle during the season and looked like a completely new pitcher. He was also given a qualifying offer, but inside sources do not believe he will accept it.
Those are just two of multiple players expected to hit free agency this winter. It will be a busy next few months for those in the front office, trying to put together the best team possible.