New York Mets fans are expressing frustration as the team kicked off the Winter Meetings by signing veteran reliever Carl Edwards Jr. to a minor-league deal, while star first baseman Pete Alonso remains without a contract. Fans had anticipated news regarding Alonso and pitcher Edwin Díaz, but the focus on a minor signing has led to backlash.
Will Sammon reported that the 34-year-old Edwards, who recorded a 4.44 ERA with impressive strikeout and ground-ball rates in Triple-A last season, will be joining the Mets for spring training. While Edwards adds some depth to the bullpen, it falls short of the major moves that fans had hoped for following weeks of anticipation.
The discontent among fans has quickly surfaced on social media, with many criticizing Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns for what they perceive as “dumpster diving” in the player market. “Stearns dumpster diving never dies,” lamented one fan, referring to a pattern of low-cost signings which include previous minor-league deals with players like Anderson Severino and Nick Burdi. Others characterized the signings as “leftovers from the Yankees’ recycling bin,” reinforcing the notion that fans are desperate for more significant developments.
The unease stems from Alves’ impressive stats last season, including 38 home runs and 126 RBIs, contrasted starkly by his ongoing contract negotiations. Reports indicate that Díaz is also pursuing a substantial five-year deal after returning to form with a stunning 1.28 ERA and a 38% strikeout rate. Fans are particularly worried that the extended negotiations could push Alonso further away from re-signing with the Mets, especially after Steve Cohen’s public comments regarding Alonso’s approach to free agency.
As rival teams make bold moves in the offseason—such as Toronto’s pursuit of key players—Mets fans are calling for decisive actions from their organization. “This is supposed to be a big-market winter,” voiced a frustrated fan, underscoring the expectation for the Mets to secure star players and make impactful decisions rather than settling for minor signings.
With the Winter Meetings in full swing, the plea from fans is clear: they want substantial signings that reflect their team’s ambitions. The hope remains that the Mets will prioritize major free agents to restore the confidence of their loyal fanbase.