David Stearns Speaks on Mets Lineup

Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images

February 10, 2026

New York Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns held a press conference Tuesday to make multiple announcements about the team’s outlook for 2026. His expectations for the team remain high despite altering the roster this offseason.

“Expectations are always high,” Stearns said. “We have expectations to win at a high level consistently. I expect us to do that this year.”

Lindor Potentially Sidelined

Stearns asserted that shortstop Francisco Lindor might need to undergo surgery on the hamate bones in his wrist. This can set the 32-year-old back at least six weeks. The Mets’ season opener against the Pittsburgh Pirates falls right around that time. But Stearns is optimistic that Lindor can make a full recovery by then.

“We are optimistic that he will be available for Opening Day, even with surgery,” he explained.

Lindor has dealt with multiple injuries over the past few years. He played multiple games last season with a fractured pinky toe after dealing with lower back pain in 2024. Additionally, he underwent a procedure on his right elbow earlier this offseason.

Starting the season without Lindor can hinder the Mets’ chances of getting off to a good start, as they did last season. Lindor played a significant role in their success early on, tallying 28 hits, five doubles and six home runs in April. He ended the season with 172 hits, 86 RBI and 35 doubles in 160 appearances.

David Stearns also mentioned that Ronny Mauricio might play shortstop if Lindor is out during spring training. Mauricio can help in that regard, considering he has played shortstop, second and third base.

“If we need help, we will tackle that. We remain optimistic that even if Lindor has to go through surgery, he will be back before Opening Day,” Stearns added.

Outfield Adjustments

Stearns later said that outfielder Juan Soto will shift from playing in right to left field. The decision was made after Soto spent this offseason playing right field as he prepares for the World Baseball Classic.

“Over the last month or so, as [Carlos Mendoza] and Juan were talking about the season, Juan was working out in left field because he’s going to play left field for the [Dominican Republic] at the World Baseball Classic,” Stearns continued. “As they had their conversations, he felt really comfortable there.”

Soto is no stranger to moving around the outfield. The 2025 National League MVP finalist has started in left field 458 times in his career. He made 157 starts at right field last season.

With Soto likely playing left field, prospect Carson Benge can fill the outfield gap. Tyrone Taylor and Brett Baty are also options because of their experience with the team, unlike Benge, who has yet to play at the major league level.

“Benge could be a potential option. We’ve been consistent that he has a chance to make the team,” David Stearns explained.

Looking Ahead

Stearns announced that lefty AJ Minter will be back from injury in May after tearing his left lateral muscle last season. The addition of another reliever is increasingly beneficial for the bullpen with four others on the active roster.

Stearns also showed optimism in the potential of Tobias Myers joining the starting rotation. The Mets acquired the 27-year-old righty in the same trade that brought in righty Freddy Peralta from the Milwaukee Brewers. Myers owned a record of 9–6 as a starter in 2024, but came out of the bullpen last season. He gives the Mets versatility for that reason.

“Tobias can pitch in any role — we need him in a length role. We will start him and see how our spring goes to see where he fits best,” Stearns concluded.