Full Breakdown
Mets Owner Steve Cohen Vows to Keep President David Stearns Amid Season Collapse
7/2/2026, 12:01:50 AM
Cohen Confirms Stearns Will Remain President After Managerial Change
On July 1, 2026, after firing manager Carlos Mendoza, owner Steve Cohen told the New York Post’s “The Show” podcast that David Stearns will “live out” his five-year contract through 2028 and will not be removed. The Mets entered the series finale at 36-50, last in the NL East and 14.5 games behind the division leader.
Background and Offseason Roster Overhaul
Cohen bought the Mets in 2020 and hired former Brewers GM David Stearns in October 2023 on a five-year deal. Stearns guided the 2024 team to the NLCS, but the 2025-26 offseason saw Brandon Nimmo and Jeff McNeil traded, Pete Alonso and Edwin Díaz lost to free agency, and new signings including Marcus Semien, Jorge Polanco, Luis Robert Jr., Freddy Peralta, Bo Bichette ($126 M), Polanco ($40 M) and Devin Williams ($51 M). The overhaul aimed to replace departing stars but has largely faltered.
Season Record and Key Statistics
The Mets sit at 36-50 (.419), the third-worst NL record. FanGraphs gives a 3.8 % postseason chance; SportsLine puts odds under 1 %. The team ranks 26th in runs (343) and 29th in OPS (.673). Semien hits .214 (71 OPS+); Polanco is .179/.246/.286 in 14 games; Bichette .251/.678; Peralta 4.53 ERA (17 starts); Williams 4.13 ERA, 1.48 WHIP, negative WAR.
Cohen’s Official Statements on Stability
Cohen said, “I’m going forward with David as our leader,” and added that “the change that’s not going to be made is moving David out at this point.” He called Stearns “reflective and adaptable,” noting a “mixed record” and warning that “burn and churn” creates a toxic environment that deters talent.
Fan and Media Criticism
Fans and analysts have labeled the offseason moves “controversial” and “failed,” citing the loss of Pete Alonso and Jeff McNeil and the injury-plagued performance of new signings. Chants for Alonso during a Cubs sweep illustrated fan frustration, and media outlets noted the roster changes “have drawn the ire of the Mets fan base.”
Conflicting Projections and Data Gaps
FanGraphs projects a 3.8 % postseason chance; SportsLine estimates under 1 %. Sources differ on the Mets’ league ranking, with some citing a third-worst NL record and others ranking 26th in runs. No public data on the farm system’s depth has been released.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I’m going forward with David as our leader,” — Steve Cohen, Mets owner
- “David is reflective and adaptable. We'll figure out what changes need to be made, but it won't be David.” — Steve Cohen
- “And every time you burn and churn, guess what - the next time, nobody wants to come.” — Steve Cohen
What’s Next
Cohen said the club will conduct a “deeper dive” before the August 3 trade deadline, leaving open a fire-sale or targeted acquisitions. Stearns may add a general-manager-type assistant, a role not yet filled. The owner’s pledge to honor the contract suggests future moves will target players, not the president.
