The New York Mets are coming off what might be the biggest disappointment of the entire 2025 season. Despite having the highest payroll in the league, the team failed to make the postseason after starting the campaign on fire. At one point, the Mets held the best record in the league, but a late-season collapse saw them miss the playoffs by just one game, as the Cincinnati Reds held the tiebreaker over them.
Throughout the season, the Mets had numerous opportunities to secure wins that ultimately slipped away—a tough pill to swallow for both the team and its fans. Unfortunately, things aren’t looking much better as the offseason is now in full swing, with players’ contracts becoming the primary focus.
One of the biggest blows for Mets fans is the loss of two star players: Pete Alonso and Edwin Diaz. Both have opted out of their player options for the 2026 season and will be entering free agency. Losing Alonso will be particularly brutal, as he was one of the best power hitters in the sport and frequently delighted fans with home run souvenirs. Diaz was also a fan favorite, known for his famous warm-up trumpet song that resonated with many across the sport. These two stars, some of the biggest names in New York sports, could potentially take their talents elsewhere.
Meanwhile, the Mets have been making other roster moves. Starter Frankie Montas exercised his $17 million player option for the 2026 season, as did reliever A.J. Minter. Given the substantial salary involved, Montas’s decision comes as no surprise. The team also exercised their club option on left-handed pitcher Brooks Raley, while declining the club option on right-handed pitcher Drew Smith.
Montas, a veteran starter, can bring significant value to the Mets if he stays healthy. This past season, he appeared in seven games for the team but struggled, finishing with a disappointing 6.28 ERA and a 1.60 WHIP. Improvement will be crucial, and with a productive offseason, Montas could rebound and make a strong contribution in 2026.
https://clutchpoints.com/mlb/new-york-mets/mets-news-frankie-montas-makes-official-contract-option-decision