Mets Shake Up Roster: Semien Arrives, Nimmo Departs
New York Mets General Manager David Stearns has announced significant changes to the roster, promising not to “repeat” the previous season. The most notable transaction is the trade of outfielder Brandon Nimmo to the Texas Rangers for second baseman Marcus Semien. This decision was finalized during the general managers’ meetings in Las Vegas.Stearns explained that Semien will bring balance to the lineup from the right side, a need identified by the team. The Mets underperformed in the second half of the season, missing the postseason after reaching the National League Championship Series in 2024. Semien, 35, had an OPS of .669 last year, with a batting average of .230 and 15 home runs, his fewest home runs in a full season since 2018. Stearns is confident that Semien will improve his offensive performance, but he also highlighted his other qualities.We recognize that what we did last year was not enough, and repeating with the same group was not the right thing.
David Stearns
This move also opens up opportunities in the Mets’ outfield, where Jeff McNeil could get more playing time, as well as for several prospects in the coming years. McNeil could also play more at first base, depending on how the rest of the offseason unfolds for New York. First baseman Pete Alonso and closer Edwin Díaz are currently free agents.He’s a player who can contribute to the team’s success in various ways. The bat may not be the most outstanding at this stage of his career… We are counting on his defensive contributions and his performance on the bases. We believe that’s how he’ll help us win games.
David Stearns
Stearns was also consulted on the team’s financial capacity to bring back these players and add more in free agency, especially in the outfield.We would love to have Edwin and Pete back. They are both great Mets. I’m not going to go into details about any conversations we’ve had (with them) so far.
David Stearns
Stearns expressed his gratitude to Nimmo, 32, for waiving his no-trade clause to complete the deal. Nimmo is under contract through 2030, while Semien has three years remaining on his contract. Nimmo’s popularity among New York fans was an important factor for the Mets, but they ultimately decided to make the trade.I think anything is realistic at this point. The salary space is not unlimited, but I am confident that we will have the support and resources necessary to put a very good team on the field.
David Stearns
We had to think about it. That’s part of this. That makes decisions like this a little more challenging than they would be otherwise.
David Stearns
