The New York Mets have dominated baseball’s offseason headlines after signing Juan Soto to a record-shattering 15-year, $765 million contract in December 2024 – the largest deal in professional sports history. The move signals an aggressive new era under owner Steve Cohen, who has transformed the franchise since his $2.4 billion acquisition in 2020.
Coming off a resurgent 89-73 season that saw them reach the 2024 NL Championship Series, the Mets are doubling down on their “OMG” momentum. Last year’s Cinderella story featured:
- A midseason turnaround sparked by infielder José Iglesias’ viral walk-up song “OMG” (released under his stage name Candelita)
- The unexpected rallying influence of McDonald’s mascot Grimace during a June surge
- Rookie manager Carlos Mendoza guiding the team to its second playoff appearance in three years
2025 Spring Training Developments
As pitchers and catchers report to Port St. Lucie:
- Frankie Montas (lat strain) will miss 6-8 weeks, creating rotation uncertainty
- Soto made waves arriving at camp: “You could just feel it when he walked in,” said teammate Brandon Nimmo
- Prospects Brett Baty and Mark Vientos are taking reps at first base as insurance behind Pete Alonso
- Closer Edwin Díaz returns after posting a 1.32 ERA in his comeback 2024 season
“This isn’t just about buying stars – it’s about building a sustainable winner,” said president of baseball operations David Stearns during Thursday’s press conference.
The Mets face heightened expectations with their revamped lineup featuring Soto alongside Alonso (.287/53 HR/135 RBI in 2024) and Francisco Lindor. However, questions remain about pitching depth following Montas’ injury and Kodai Senga’s inconsistent debut season.
