With the New York Mets officially out of postseason contention, all eyes will turn to the front office as they approach what promises to be an expensive free-agency period. Retaining Pete Alonso could prove challenging, especially with his new agent, Scott Boras, known for prolonging negotiations to secure the best deals for his clients.
The Mets have the financial capability to meet Alonso’s demands, but they can’t afford to wait too long for Boras to finalize a deal, especially as other high-profile free agents are snapped up. Players like Sean Manaea, Ryne Stanek, and Jesse Winker are expected to leave the roster, but more departures are anticipated. Here are three additional Mets who likely won’t return for the 2025 season.
**3. Jose Quintana’s Return Is Uncertain**
Jose Quintana had a decent tenure with the Mets, recording a 3.57 ERA in 2023 and a 3.75 in 2024. However, his 4.56 FIP this season suggests he was fortunate in several outings. Although he logged the most innings since 2019, the Mets have pressing rotation needs and may be reluctant to bring back a player who seems to be regressing, especially with better options available.
The Mets have an impressive $88.2 million coming off the books in expiring contracts, giving them significant financial flexibility for top-tier signings. While it’s uncertain how aggressively owner Steve Cohen will pursue players this offseason, the near-miss for a World Series berth suggests that strengthening the starting rotation will be a top priority.
**2. Adam Ottavino’s Time with the Mets May Be Over**
Following a season with a 4.34 ERA, it’s likely the Mets will seek bullpen help elsewhere. Ottavino’s $4.5 million contract was manageable, but his performance this year fell short compared to his impressive ERAs of 2.06 and 3.21 in the previous two seasons. While he improved in the second half with a 3.43 ERA, the front office will prioritize wisely investing in a bullpen that finished with a 4.03 ERA, ranking 17th in the league.
With numerous relievers available this offseason, expect the Mets to pursue younger options with greater potential rather than sticking with veteran players. At 39 years old, Ottavino will likely find a new team, but it won’t be in New York, where the focus will be on more prominent free agents.
**1. J.D. Martinez’s Future with the Mets Is Uncertain**
J.D. Martinez enjoyed a successful run from 2014 to 2023, posting a .293/.359/.550 slash line and hitting over 30 home runs four times. However, after a lackluster season with the Mets in 2024, where he slashed .235/.320/.406 with 16 home runs and 69 RBIs, his chances of returning seem slim. With Alonso’s potential return being a primary focus, the team will need to consider its designated hitter options carefully.
Given Martinez’s underwhelming performance, it’s unlikely he will receive another one-year contract from the Mets. As the front office focuses on re-signing Alonso and addressing gaps in the starting rotation, it seems increasingly unlikely that the 37-year-old Martinez will fit into their future plans.
