Story perspectives

Mets Miss Key Trade Targets, Hurt Postseason Hopes

9/20/2025

Summary

Story summary

Mets president David Stearns admitted the team underperformed at the trade deadline, missing out on Jhoan Duran and Harrison Bader, who joined the Phillies.
The Phillies traded two prospects for Duran, while the Mets were reluctant to trade their top five prospects for Bader.
Duran boasts a 1.53 ERA and 15 saves, while Bader is hitting .331 with an .889 OPS.
Bader has notably excelled against the Mets, averaging .528 in their matchups this season.
The Mets' inability to acquire these players has hurt their postseason prospects.

History

Historical Context

The New York Mets' journey to the 2015 World Series marked a significant turnaround after years of underperformance, including a stretch from 2009 to 2014 without a winning record. Key acquisitions like Yoenis Cespedes revitalized the team, leading to their first National League pennant since 2000. However, their recent hesitance to trade top prospects reflects a strategic shift that may impact future postseason aspirations.

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Story summary

Mets president David Stearns admitted the team underperformed at the trade deadline, missing out on Jhoan Duran and Harrison Bader, who joined the Phillies.
The Phillies traded two prospects for Duran, while the Mets were reluctant to trade their top five prospects for Bader.
Duran boasts a 1.53 ERA and 15 saves, while Bader is hitting .331 with an .889 OPS.
Bader has notably excelled against the Mets, averaging .528 in their matchups this season.
The Mets' inability to acquire these players has hurt their postseason prospects.

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