New York Mets’ disciplined free agency strategy shakes up the roster as fan favorites Pete Alonso and Brandon Nimmo depart, sparking debate over the team’s direction. Will sacrificing star power ultimately create a stronger contender for 2026?Ryan Finkelstein scrutinizes the Mets’ pivot from big-ticket spending under Steve Cohen to targeted moves designed for sustainability. Key topics include Brandon Nimmo’s trade, Edwin Diaz’s exit, and the pursuit of value contracts—like landing Devin Williams to replace Diaz. The analysis spotlights opportunities in the trade market, the appeal of adding Wilson Contreras or Cody Bellinger, and the challenge of assembling a championship-caliber infield around Francisco Lindor and Juan Soto. Mets fans, can patience with David Stearns’ bold reset lead to a perennial playoff run, or will nostalgia for stars lost haunt the new regime?Everydayer Club  If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub   JOIN THE LOCKED ON METS INSIDER COMMUNITY: https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonmets  Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!GametimeDownload the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.FanDuelToday's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.