The New York Mets appear to be waving the white flag on their season. According to Chelsea Janes, the Mets have informed rival teams that everyone on the roster is available except Juan Soto, Nolan McLean, Carson Benge, AJ Ewing, and Christian Scott. The report suggests New York is open to moving nearly every veteran on its roster as the trade deadline approaches.
The news is a stunning development for a franchise that entered the season with one of the highest payrolls in Major League Baseball and legitimate World Series aspirations. Just months ago, bettors were backing the Mets to win it all. Now, those hopes have all but evaporated, with a $100 preseason World Series ticket worth just $3 on the secondary market.
Juan Soto remains the obvious franchise cornerstone, while top prospects Nolan McLean, Carson Benge, AJ Ewing, and Christian Scott have all been deemed untouchable. Outside of those five names, however, every player is reportedly available in trade discussions.
If the report proves accurate, the Mets could become the biggest sellers at this year's deadline. Contenders across baseball will undoubtedly be calling about New York's veteran talent, giving the front office an opportunity to replenish its farm system while clearing payroll for future seasons.
For a team that spent aggressively in hopes of winning now, it's a stunning shift in direction. Just months after entering the year with championship aspirations, the Mets now appear willing to move almost anyone in an effort to reset for the future.
