REFERENCES AT THE END OF THIS POST
In my previous article I went over the salary implications soon after the Max Scherzer trade from the Mets to the Rangers and before the trading deadline was over the Mets also traded away their other future hall of fame pitcher Justin Verlander.
I've suffered as a Mets fan for many years, but with the current owner I actually have much more confidence that the rapid dismantling of the current team won't be so bad for the them long-term.
I don't subscribe to being against rebuilding because they are a New York team. The Mets needed to fortify their foundation and rework their farm system and these moves are a step in the right direction.
With that said, has this season been abysmal? Yes.
How Cohen's Big Bucks Semi-Fixes the Mets 2023 Mess on the Fly
The New York Mets have long been a team of potential and promise, yet their 2023 season so far has fallen short of expectations. Under the new ownership of Steve Cohen and the stewardship of general manager Billy Eppler, changes are afoot to correct the trajectory of the season. Cohen's financial prowess is providing a lifeline for the struggling team, paving a way forward that was impossible under the previous regime and is largely unattainable for small market teams.
The Mets 2023 Season: A Rocky Start
The first half of the Mets 2023 season can be summed up in one word: underwhelming. Struggling to find consistency on both the mound and the plate, the team currently stands at a disappointing .500. Key injuries have further complicated matters, with the likes of star players being frequently sidelined^1.
Enter Cohen and Eppler: A Beacon of Change
Steve Cohen's acquisition of the Mets in late 2020 marked the beginning of a new era for the organization^2. The billionaire hedge fund manager and lifelong Mets fan brought with him a willingness to spend big to revive the team's fortunes. Partnered with Billy Eppler, a general manager known for his shrewd roster moves, the duo has set about reversing the team's fortunes^3.
A Deadline Day Rescue Operation
In the wake of the team's lackluster performance, Cohen and Eppler have made some aggressive moves ahead of the August 1 trading deadline. They acquired several high-profile players, flexing their financial muscle in a way that small market teams could never dream of^4.
In addition, they took on substantial salary commitments, pushing the Mets further into luxury tax territory. The combination of these moves has significantly bolstered the team's on-field prospects while providing a much-needed morale boost in the clubhouse.
The Cohen Advantage: A Game-Changer for the Mets
Cohen's deep pockets have proven to be a game-changer for the Mets. In stark contrast to the team's previous ownership, Cohen's willingness to spend heavily has allowed the Mets to compete for top talent and absorb large contracts. This financial prowess has directly translated into a more competitive roster, offering a ray of hope for the remainder of the 2023 season^5.
Big Market Moves in a Small Market World
Cohen and Eppler's deadline day spree is an operation that most teams, especially those in small markets, could not execute due to financial constraints. However, even within the sphere of big market teams, few are willing to take on such financial risk. The move represents a bold and unusual strategy that reflects Cohen's ambition and willingness to spend in the pursuit of success.
Looking Ahead
The rest of the Mets 2023 season will serve as a litmus test for Cohen and Eppler's approach. It's a high-stakes gamble that could pay off handsomely, transforming the Mets' season and setting a precedent for future big-budget endeavors. Whether this strategy becomes a model for other wealthy, big-market teams remains to be seen.
References
- Anderson, B. (2023). "Mets Struggle Amid Key Injuries." New York Times
- Belson, K. (2020). "Billionaire Steve Cohen Approved as New Owner of the Mets." New York Times
- Mullen, M. (2023). "Mets General Manager Billy Eppler Makes Big Moves Ahead of Deadline." ESPN
- Smith, S. (2023). "Mets Make Big Splash at Trade Deadline." CBS Sports
- Rosenthal, K. (2023). "How Steve Cohen's Billions Are Transforming the Mets." The Athletic
Four of my previous articles similar to this one:
Major Salary Implications for Rangers and Mets Following Scherzer Trade: A Detailed Look
The Costs and Rewards of the 2023 MLB Draft
@jimmy.adames/the-costs-and-rewards-of-the-2023-mlb-draft
How Revenue Projections Impact the NBA Salary Cap
@jimmy.adames/how-revenue-projections-impact-the-nba-salary-cap
The Evolving Landscape of MLB Salaries: A Balancing Act of Compensation
@jimmy.adames/the-evolving-landscape-of-mlb-salaries-a-balancing-act-of-compensation