Locked On Mets - Daily Podcast On The New York Mets

Who will anchor the New York Mets outfield after Brandon Nimmo’s departure?  

With stars like Kyle Tucker and Cody Bellinger leading free agency buzz, and potential trade targets Jarren Duran and Byron Buxton in the mix, the Mets’ next outfield configuration promises to shake up the National League.  

Host Ryan Finkelstein explores whether New York will make a blockbuster signing, pursue a cost-effective trade, or turn to homegrown prospects like Carson Benge and Jett Williams to fill the void.

Key topics include the pros and cons of major free agents, the appeal of you...

New York Mets shake up the roster with a blockbuster Brandon Nimmo–Marcus Semien trade. 

Will this dramatic swap finally set the Mets on a winning path for 2026 and beyond, or does it signal a profound change in team philosophy? 

Host Ryan Finkelstein unpacks key press conference insights from both David Stearns and Nimmo, spotlighting the emotional and strategic layers behind Nimmo’s decision to waive his no-trade clause and the motivations driving the Mets’ front office.

Catch detailed analysis on Marcus Semien’s projected impact in the middle infield next to Francisco Lindor, Je...

The New York Mets overhaul their core, sending Brandon Nimmo to the Texas Rangers in a blockbuster trade for Marcus Semien.  

Will this bold move jumpstart a new direction for the Mets and spark an outfield transformation at Citi Field?

Ryan Finkelstein breaks down how Semien’s arrival upgrades second base both defensively and in leadership, shifting the dynamic alongside Francisco Lindor and reshaping future payroll flexibility.  

Key topics include Jeff McNeil’s uncertain status, the ripple effects for top prospects like Jett Williams and Luisangel Acuña, and potential trade scenarios.  

The ep...

New York Mets send shockwaves through MLB by trading Brandon Nimmo to the Texas Rangers for Marcus Semien. Has the franchise’s core truly turned a corner, and what moves could follow this blockbuster deal?

Ryan Finkelstein reacts to the seismic roster shakeup, questioning the decision to swap a younger, homegrown outfielder for a veteran second baseman with a hefty contract.  

Explore what Semien’s defensive prowess brings to Citi Field, how the Mets' front office is prioritizing run prevention, and the potential ripple effects for Jeff McNeil, Jett Williams, and the team’s pursuit of star...

New York Mets fans get a first look at the future as top prospects like Elian Pena, Will Watson, Chris Suero, and Nick Morabito jockey for a spot in the organization’s top 10 rankings.  

Can dynamic teenagers and breakout pitchers strengthen the Mets’ farm system and deliver long-term upside?  

Will emerging relievers like Dylan Ross and Ryan Lambert make an impact at the MLB level in 2025?

Ryan Finkelstein spotlights the most intriguing Mets minor league talents outside the top 10, revealing which arms and bats might crack the big leagues next.  

The ep...

New York Mets take center stage with blockbuster trade rumors: Could Fernando Tatis Jr. and Juan Soto anchor the outfield for years to come?  

Host Ryan Finkelstein breaks down the possibility of the Mets acquiring Tatis from the Padres, sparking a dramatic shake-up in MLB power rankings.  

Are the Padres ready to part with their superstar to solve roster depth and financial constraints?

Key discussions feature the Padres’ payroll crunch, Tatis Jr.’s contract implications compared to stars like Francisco Lindor and Kyle Tucker, and the trade value of prospects like Carson Benge and Je...

New York Mets weigh trading Kodai Senga as rumors swirl—could this shake up their rotation and open the door for a surprise ace?  

Host Ryan Finkelstein analyzes Senga’s fluctuating trade value following an injury-shortened season, dissecting potential landing spots like the Padres, Astros, Giants, and Diamondbacks, and what type of MLB or prospect return New York might expect.

Key segments spotlight a bold Senga-for-Sonny Gray swap with the Cardinals, implications for David Stearns’ roster decisions, and a complete rundown of the finalized Mets coaching staff, including pitching coach Justin Willard and catching coach J.P. Ar...

New York Mets shake up their roster as Frankie Montas is DFA’d and top prospect Nick Morabito earns a 40-man spot. Is this the first move in a winter full of surprises under David Stearns?  

Host Ryan Finkelstein spotlights a record-setting wave of qualifying offer acceptances across MLB, dissecting major decisions from Shota Imanaga and Brandon Woodruff to Gleyber Torres and Trent Grisham, and explores the ripple effect on the free agent landscape.

Key segments include the impact of recent DFAs—including JJ Bleday and Nathaniel Lowe—the strategic addition of Nick Morabito, and buzz fr...

New York Mets shake up their roster as Frankie Montas is DFA’d and top prospect Nick Morabito earns a 40-man spot. Is this the first move in a winter full of surprises under David Stearns?  

Host Ryan Finkelstein spotlights a record-setting wave of qualifying offer acceptances across MLB, dissecting major decisions from Shota Imanaga and Brandon Woodruff to Gleyber Torres and Trent Grisham, and explores the ripple effect on the free agent landscape.

Key segments include the impact of recent DFAs—including JJ Bleday and Nathaniel Lowe—the strategic addition of Nick Morabito, and buzz fr...

The New York Mets consider a blockbuster shakeup as trade rumors swirl around Brandon Nimmo despite his full no-trade clause.  

Could moving Nimmo open the door for a superstar opposite Soto in the Mets outfield, or will financial hurdles and legacy ambitions keep him in Queens?  

The front office weighs the pros and cons of eating salary or swapping bad contracts to create roster flexibility for high-profile pursuits, including Cody Bellinger and Kyle Tucker.

Host Ryan Finkelstein breaks down Nimmo’s market value, potential landing spots like the Houston Astros and Detroit Tigers, and...

Josh Naylor’s return to the Seattle Mariners sends shockwaves through MLB free agency, removing a top first base option and putting pressure on the New York Mets as they negotiate with Pete Alonso.  

With Naylor’s five-year, $90–100 million deal setting the tone, are the Mets facing a thinner market and tougher decisions at the corner infield spot?

Ryan Finkelstein breaks down the ripple effects of Naylor’s signing, examines Pete Alonso’s contract prospects, and highlights the Boston Red Sox as a dangerous suitor for the Mets’ home run leader.  

The episode explores poten...

Could the New York Mets turn to Japan for Pete Alonso’s replacement?  

Munetaka Murakami’s power-packed profile sparks debate—will his swing-and-miss struggles translate to MLB, or could he become the next big home run threat in Queens?  

Host Ryan Finkelstein weighs the risks of signing an unproven slugger to a long-term deal.

Kazuma Okamoto emerges as a safer, versatile free agent option, offering pop, defensive reliability at multiple positions, and consistency at the plate.  

Discussion widens to leading international arms like Tatsuya Imai, plus notable KBO and NPB names who could...

The New York Mets could transform their outfield and rotation if Byron Buxton hits the trade market. Is a blockbuster move brewing in Queens?  

Ryan Finkelstein explores the possibility of acquiring Buxton, Joe Ryan, or Pablo Lopez from the Minnesota Twins, weighing the risks and rewards in a center field market thin on elite talent.

Trade rumors swirl as Finkelstein assesses mock deals, prospect packages, and team needs—factoring in names like Mark Vientos, Brandon Sproat, and AJ Ewing.  

The episode spotlights Scott Boras's latest statements on Pete Alonso, the Mets’ interest in Cody B...

New York Mets signal a youth movement as President David Stearns opens the door wide open for Carson Benge to be the Mets Opening Day center fielder.  

Could Benge’s rapid ascent and elite potential reshape the Mets’ future?  

Host Ryan Finkelstein explores bold declarations from the GM meetings, discussing Stearns’ confidence in Brett Baty at third base and the shifting plans for prospects like Jett Williams and Mark Vientos.

Key topics include the Mets’ approach to filling first base, second base, and DH—will Pete Alonso and Jeff McNeil remain pillars, or will big tra...

The New York Mets could be eyeing a blockbuster move as Ketel Marte hits the trade block, potentially slotting between Francisco Lindor and Juan Soto in a dream lineup.  

The Arizona Diamondbacks' All-Star second baseman, who finished third in MVP voting in 20234, brings elite production at a discount—$92 million remaining through 2030 represents exceptional value for baseball's best at his position.  

With Arizona motivated to move him before his full no-trade clause kicks in mid-April, the window for acquiring the switch-hitting superstar is narrow.

Host Ryan Finkelstein breaks down what a competitive trade package migh...

The New York Mets' defensive struggles in 2024 weren't just about Pete Alonso at first base—the real culprit was Mark Vientos at third, who posted the worst defensive metrics relative to playing time.  

This episode breaks down where the Mets' run prevention truly failed and reveals surprising solutions for the offseason.

Host Ryan Finkelstein analyzes defensive metrics across the roster, exposing how playing guys out of position—particularly Vientos at third and Jeff McNeil in center—tanked the team's defense more than Alonso's first base play.  

With Francisco Lindor underperforming his usual defensive standard...

The Pete Alonso free agency rumors are swirling again, but are the New York Mets really planning to let their franchise cornerstone walk?  

Host Ryan Finkelstein breaks down a Sports Illustrated report claiming the Mets want a clubhouse culture shift by trading Jeff McNeil and letting Alonso leave unless he accepts a team-friendly deal. The problem? The source is a rival NL scout, not anyone inside the Mets organization.

Finkelstein examines whether first base defense is truly the issue David Stearns referenced when discussing "run prevention," or if positions like right field (Juan Soto), center f...

Host Ryan Finkelstein breaks down the New York Mets' top 10 prospects, revealing a farm system as strong as any in Major League Baseball.  

Nolan McLean leads the rankings after his dominant 2.06 ERA debut and stands as the favorite for NL Rookie of the Year in 2026, potentially earning the Mets a valuable prospect promotion incentive draft pick.

The analysis covers elite talents like Carson Benge, who could claim the starting center field job, and pitching prospects Jonah Tong and Brandon Sproat, both showing frontline potential.  

Finkelstein examines the intriguing debate between middle infielders Jett Wi...

The New York Mets face critical roster decisions as MLB free agency officially opens, with Edwin Diaz receiving a qualifying offer that could reshape the closer market.  

The $22.025 million QO complicates Diaz's free agency while potentially securing draft pick compensation for the Mets if he signs elsewhere.  

Meanwhile, the starting pitcher market presents challenges, as top arms like Franber Valdez, Dylan Cease, and Zach Gallen all carry qualifying offer penalties.

Host Ryan Finkelstein breaks down the Mets' strategic positioning, analyzing how luxury tax implications affect their pursuit of free agents and the surprising co...

The New York Mets lost first base coach Antoan Richardson to their division rival Atlanta Braves, along with pitching coach Jeremy Hefner—a double blow that has the fanbase reeling.  

Richardson, architect of the Mets' historically efficient base-stealing operation in 2024, couldn't reach contract terms with New York despite mutual interest.  

Host Ryan Finkelstein breaks down exclusive reporting revealing Richardson rejected the Mets' initial offer, shopped around, then circled back—only to find the team had already allocated their final pension slot to another coach.

The episode examines whether the Mets cheaped out or if Ric...

The New York Mets and Chicago White Sox could be headed for a blockbuster trade centered around center fielder Luis Robert Jr., who just had his $20 million option picked up.  

With the Mets searching for a center field solution while waiting for top prospect Carson Benge, Robert emerges as a high-upside target despite two injury-plagued seasons that have complicated his trade value.

Host Ryan Finkelstein sits down with White Sox insider Elijah Evans to dissect Robert's tumultuous journey since his stellar 2023 campaign and why Chicago's front office has struggled to maximize his trade value.  

...

The New York Mets face critical offseason decisions with Pete Alonso and Edwin Diaz both entering free agency.  

Host Ryan Finkelstein breaks down detailed contract predictions for both players, proposing a five-year, $150 million deal for Alonso with strategic deferred money that could lower the luxury tax hit.  

For closer Edwin Diaz, who just opted out of his contract, a four-year, $80 million structure emerges as the sweet spot to retain the elite reliever.

Finkelstein analyzes why Alonso should be the Mets' top priority, examining alternatives like Josh Naylor and Japanese import Munetaka Murakami while ex...

The MLB offseason kicks into high gear as the New York Mets face critical roster decisions that will shape their 2025 campaign.  

With Pete Alonso and Edwin Diaz hitting free agency, the franchise must navigate qualifying offers, non-tender candidates, and Rule 5 draft protections while managing a crowded 40-man roster.

Host Ryan Finkelstein breaks down essential offseason dates, from the November 6th qualifying offer deadline to the December winter meetings in Orlando.  

He analyzes which Mets players face non-tender decisions—including Tylor Megill, Tyrone Taylor, and several Tommy John surgery recoveries—and evaluates Rule 5 draft-eligible prospe...

The Los Angeles Dodgers captured their second consecutive World Series title in a dramatic Game 7 thriller, but the Toronto Blue Jays proved this championship team was far from invincible.  

Despite boasting four ace pitchers and a star-studded roster featuring Shohei Ohtani and Freddie Freeman, the Dodgers needed heroics from unlikely sources like Miguel Rojas and a legendary performance from Yoshinobu Yamamoto to survive.

Harris Ryan Finkelstein breaks down the instant classic that saw every Dodgers starter take the mound, including Yamamoto's historic three-win World Series performance on zero days' rest.  

The Blue Jays' ne...

The New York Mets face critical offseason decisions that will shape their 2025 championship aspirations.  

With the World Series wrapping up, the real work begins for the Mets front office as they navigate a complex roster puzzle with both veteran stars and emerging prospects.

Host Ryan Finkelstein breaks down the essential checklist: re-signing or replacing Pete Alonso and Edwin Diaz tops the list, followed by acquiring a frontline ace through trade or free agency.  

Names like Tarik Skubal, Dylan Cease, and Freddy Peralta emerge as potential rotation anchors. The analysis challenges the narrative that Ne...

Mark Vientos' future with the New York Mets hangs in the balance after a disappointing 2025 season.  

The third baseman who dazzled in the 2024 playoffs with five home runs now finds himself potentially on the trade block, raising questions about whether the Mets should cash in on his remaining value or bet on his upside.

Host Ryan Finkelstein breaks down Vientos' roller-coaster tenure with the Mets, from his breakout 2024 campaign (.266/.322/.516, 27 homers) to his 2025 struggles (.233/.289/.413).  

The analysis explores potential trade destinations, including the White Sox, Cardinals, and Rays, with mock deals involving Luis Robert, Wilson Co...

Jeff McNeil's future with the New York Mets hangs in the balance as he enters the final year of his four-year, $50 million contract. 

Once a batting champion and All-Star, McNeil has regressed to league-average production, raising questions about his $15.75 million salary and roster fit. 

Host Ryan Finkelstein breaks down McNeil's trade value, potential landing spots, and whether the Mets should keep their homegrown second baseman or pursue younger options like top prospect Jett Williams.

The analysis explores realistic trade scenarios involving Luis Robert, Sandy Alcantara, Javier Baez, and salary-offset deals with teams like th...

The New York Mets shake up their coaching staff, with Troy Snitker joining as the new hitting coach and Antoan Richardson departing as first base coach.  

This episode of Locked On Mets digs into the implications of these changes for the team's 2026 season. Host Ryan Finkelstein analyzes Snitker's track record with the Houston Astros and how he might collaborate with Jeff Albert to boost the Mets' offense.  

The unexpected loss of Richardson, credited for the team's stellar base-running performance, raises questions about the Mets' negotiation strategy.  

Get the inside scoop on how these coa...

Brett Baty emerges as the potential long-term solution at third base for the New York Mets. The 26-year-old's impressive 2025 season, particularly his strong second-half performance, positions him as the frontrunner for the starting role in 2026.  

Host Ryan Finkelstein analyzes Baty's offensive and defensive metrics, comparing him to other third basemen and exploring his future potential.  

The episode also examines internal alternatives like Mark Vientos and Ronny Mauricio, as well as free agent options such as Alex Bregman and Kazuma Okamoto.  

Finkelstein discusses potential trade scenarios involving Baty and weighs the likelihood of his ret...

World Series Showdown: Dodgers vs. Blue Jays - Who Will Reign Supreme?

The Los Angeles Dodgers and Toronto Blue Jays face off in an unexpected World Series matchup. Can the Blue Jays' complete team challenge the Dodgers' powerhouse lineup? Key discussions include team strengths, payroll disparities, and the impact of high-spending franchises on MLB. The hosts analyze starting pitching, bullpen strategies, and offer bold predictions for the series outcome. Shohei Ohtani, Freddie Freeman, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. take center stage as potential game-changers.

Tune in for expert insights on this thrilling Wo...

Chris Suero and Nick Morabito are tearing it up in the Arizona Fall League, showcasing their potential as future Mets stars. The podcast dives into their impressive performances, with Morabito hitting .387 and stealing 8 bases, while Suero has blasted 3 home runs in 8 games.  

Host Ryan Finkelstein analyzes where these prospects fit in the Mets' farm system and future plans.  

The episode also provides an update on Christian Scott's Tommy John recovery, discussing his progress and potential impact on the 2026 rotation.  

Get the inside scoop on the Mets' rising talent and how they could shape the...

The New York Mets' starting rotation needs an ace, but the free agent market offers limited options. This episode breaks down potential targets, including Framber Valdez, Dylan Cease, and Zack Gallen.  

Host Ryan Finkelstein analyzes each pitcher's recent performance and contract situations, weighing the risks of long-term commitments.  

The show explores alternative strategies, such as trading for Freddy Peralta or Sandy Alcantara, while keeping an eye on future free agent Tarik Skubal.  

Finkelstein also discusses intriguing "flyer" options like Dustin May and Walker Buehler, who could provide value on short-term deals.  

Get...

The Mets face a critical decision in center field for 2026. With limited external options, top prospect Carson Benge emerges as a potential solution.  

Host Ryan Finkelstein analyzes trade targets like Luis Robert and free agents like Cody Bellinger, but ultimately sees Benge as the best fit.  

The 22-year-old impressed in Double-A and could compete for the starting job in spring training. Finkelstein explores internal alternatives like Tyrone Taylor and Jett Williams, while considering how moves at other positions could impact the center field situation.  

Get the full breakdown of the Mets' center field con...

The Milwaukee Brewers are poised to trade Freddy Peralta this offseason, and the New York Mets should aggressively pursue him as their new ace.  

Peralta's impressive 2.70 ERA and 200+ strikeouts make him a prime target for the Mets' rotation. Host Ryan Finkelstein breaks down Peralta's potential impact, comparing him to other trade candidates like Sandy Alcantara and Joe Ryan.  

The episode explores mock trade scenarios, including a package centered around AJ Ewing and Jonathan Santucci.  

Finkelstein also discusses the financial implications of acquiring Peralta, who's set to earn just $8 million next season.  

Coul...

Tarik Skubal's potential trade to the Mets ignites speculation.  

Host Ryan Finkelstein explores the Tigers' dilemma: maximize their ace's value or risk losing him to free agency.  

Analyzing recent trades of star pitchers, Finkelstein proposes potential packages, weighing prospects like Jonah Tong and Brandon Sproat against MLB-ready talent like David Peterson.  

The episode delves into the Mets' farm system, highlighting untouchable prospects Nolan McLean and Carson Benge.  

Get the inside scoop on how much is too much for Skubal and whether the Mets should push all-in or wait for free agency. Unco...

Shohei Ohtani's historic performance propels the Dodgers to World Series dominance. This episode of Locked On Mets dissects the Dodgers' postseason supremacy and its implications for the New York Mets.  

Host Ryan Finkelstein analyzes Ohtani's three-homer, 10-strikeout game and the Dodgers' formidable rotation featuring Blake Snell, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and Tyler Glasnow.  

The discussion shifts to how David Stearns and the Mets front office should approach their offseason strategy in light of the Dodgers' dynasty.  

Gain crucial insights into the Mets' path forward and the evolving landscape of MLB competition. Tune in now to und...

Could the New York Mets land Joe Ryan as their new ace?  

This episode explores potential trade scenarios between the Mets and Minnesota Twins. Host Ryan Finkelstein breaks down the Twins' payroll situation, roster needs, and valuable trade assets.  

He analyzes how players like Mark Vientos, Jeff McNeil, and top prospects could factor into a deal for Ryan or Pablo Lopez. Finkelstein compares the two pitchers' recent performances and contract situations, weighing the pros and cons of pursuing each.  

The episode culminates with mock trade packages for both Ryan and Lopez, considering the Met...

Sandy Alcantara trade rumors heat up as the Mets explore options to bolster their rotation. This episode breaks down potential trade packages, including Ronny Mauricio and Jacob Reimer as key pieces.  

The Marlins' perspective on trading their ace is examined, along with their roster needs and financial considerations. Jeff McNeil emerges as a surprising trade chip that could sweeten the deal.  

The host analyzes Alcantara's recent performance, highlighting his strong second half and potential for a bounce-back season.  

Dive into this in-depth trade analysis to understand how the Mets could land a Cy You...

The New York Mets are building their coaching staff, making two key hires that signal a shift towards analytics.  

Jeff Albert, the organization's former director of hitting, takes charge of the major league team's hitting program. Kai Correa, previously with the Guardians, joins as bench coach, bringing expertise in defense and base running. These moves reflect the Mets' commitment to data-driven strategies and player development.

Ryan Finkelstein, host of Locked On Mets, breaks down the implications of these hires and speculates on potential candidates for remaining positions, including pitching coach and third base coach.  

...

The New York Mets need to bolster their starting rotation, and this episode explores 11 potential trade targets.  

From young arms like MacKenzie Gore and Edward Cabrera to established veterans like Luis Castillo and Sonny Gray, host Ryan Finkelstein breaks down the options. The analysis covers contract details, recent performance, and potential trade costs for each pitcher.

Key targets include Joe Ryan, Freddy Peralta, and Pablo Lopez, with intriguing possibilities like Chris Bubic and Sandy Alcantara also discussed.  

Finkelstein even entertains the unlikely scenario of Jacob deGrom returning to the Mets. With insights on te...