Mets’ Season Declared a Failure After David Robertson Trade
The Mets situation…
The New York Mets’ season took an unexpected turn as star closer David Robertson was traded to the Miami Marlins, resulting in a potential end to their playoff aspirations for 2023. Despite having one of the highest payrolls in baseball history, the Mets parted ways with their crucial player, leaving fans speculating about the team’s future with a hint of perplexity.
Max Scherzer when asked if there's time for a run to still be made:
"Probably got to have a conversation with the front office. You traded our closer away. A bunch of people are going to have to have conversations with the front office" pic.twitter.com/KD2uPKhhEl
— SNY (@SNYtv) July 29, 2023
Thank you @Mets 💙🧡 pic.twitter.com/ZX69jtcw0j
— David Robertson (@DRob30) July 28, 2023
Why did the Mets trade David Robertson?
The decision to trade Robertson was challenging for Mets’ management, led by General Manager Billy Eppler. In return, the team received prospects Marco Vargas and Ronald Hernandez from the Marlins’ farm system. While these young talents offer potential, losing a reliable closer like Robertson had an immediate impact, leaving fans puzzled about the reasoning behind the move.
Billy Eppler on why the Mets made the decision to trade David Robertson:
"We were faced with where our club was at this point of the season. In this circumstance the value of the players we acquired exceeded our expectations, so we executed it" pic.twitter.com/7INLhHYQaq
— SNY (@SNYtv) July 28, 2023
“They got a really good person, they got a really good pitcher.”
Ron Darling and @jaysonst chat with the #MLBCentral crew about the Marlins' newly-acquired David Robertson, and what else this could mean for the Mets at the #TradeDeadline. pic.twitter.com/T0AzVrXsJZ
— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) July 28, 2023
Why was this a horrible decision?
As the replacement for injured closer Edwin Diaz, Robertson played a vital role in the Mets’ success. His ability to handle high-pressure situations and face the league’s best hitters made him invaluable to the bullpen. His absence raises concerns about the bullpen’s effectiveness moving forward, further adding to the team’s uncertainty.
Shortstop Francisco Lindor expressed optimism about their playoff chances, but the clubhouse atmosphere pointed at a different reality. The team acknowledged that their chances of making the playoffs were slim, leaving players and fans alike puzzled about the direction the team is taking.
"They're going to get an amazing player, and even better person. Just like I told him: 'You're a true professional, but what I respect you the most for is you're an amazing dad'"
– Francisco Lindor on the Mets trading David Robertson pic.twitter.com/x3OwaU7Z6U
— SNY (@SNYtv) July 28, 2023
What else will the Mets do?
The focus now shifts to the trade deadline and possible future moves. Tommy Pham and Mark Canha are potential trade candidates, but their returns may not match Robertson’s, leaving the front office with challenging decisions to make. The Mets face a complex situation with star pitchers Justin Verlander and Max Scherzer, both possessing no-trade clauses. Moving them would require salary adjustments and possibly rebuilding the rotation for 2024, adding to the team’s horrible situation.
NEWS: According to @NYPost_Mets, the #Mets are planning on bringing up RHP Reed Garrett to take David Robertson’s spot on the roster.
Garrett was claimed off waivers from the Orioles last month. #LGM pic.twitter.com/HGrh3EWrKP
— GENY Mets Report (@genymets) July 28, 2023
Will this trade have a lasting impact on the Mets?
Despite disappointment over Robertson’s trade, the acquisition of prospects Vargas and Hernandez offers hope for the future. Marlins’ expert Daniel Alvarez-Montes praised Hernandez’s potential as a star catcher with switch-hitting abilities and a strong arm. Vargas also has above-average bat-to-ball skills, solid defense, and impressive speed, which might provide some hope to fans.
In the end…
The Mets must now focus on the future, acknowledging the current season’s challenges. While the prospects bring optimism, Robertson’s departure raises uncertainty about their playoff chances. But the acquisition of these prospects also point to a brighter future for the Mets. This indicates that the Mets will be focusing on more long-term success rather short-term success with the recent playoff. Ultimately, the decisions made by the Mets at the trade deadline will provide the information we need to see where the Mets are going, its too early to draw conclusions right now.