Photo Credit: www.northjersey.com

How aggressive will David Stearns be at the trade deadline? Should the Mets focus on acquiring a hitter or a pitcher? Which prospects should they attempt to give up in a trade?

Pat Ragazzo is a reporter/publisher for Sports Illustrated, as he writes fantastic articles and gives deep insights on the New York Mets! He is a highly reliable and knowledgeable writer, having been writing for the team since 2022.

On Friday, I had the special opportunity to interview Ragazzo and ask him questions about his experiences with David Wright, the trade deadline, who the Mets should target, and his predictions for the team throughout the rest of the 2025 season!

Q: What’s your favorite David Wright memory/experience that you have?
“I have two favorite David Wright memories (one as a reporter, one as a fan). As a fan, my favorite was watching David Wright come back from his spinal stenosis injury in 2015 and hitting a home run in his first AB. As a reporter, my favorite was getting the chance to talk to Wright in spring training 2 years ago and asking him about David Stearns. He is a very nice and down to earth guy, which is what everyone says about him. “

Q: Does MLB need to find a way to revamp the All-Star Game?
“There should be an added criteria to get into the ASG, which was shown with the Misiorowski debate. But it is surprising that more and more players are opting out every year. The swing off was very entertaining to watch, and it could eventually replace extra innings in future ASG games!”

Q: Should the MLB change the format of the ASG, similarly to the NBA?
“In a way, they possibly could. If the MLB decided to change the length of the game, I am more of a traditionalist, which is why I would prefer the game to remain 9 innings. However, changing the ASG to 7 innings would still be entertaining and fun to watch!”

Q: What are your predictions for the MLB trade deadline?
“I feel that bigger names won’t get traded, such as Bregman or Chapman, but the deadline will be slower than year’s past because less teams are selling. Of course, Eugenio Suarez is the biggest bat this season with his 35 HR and the Red Sox have an outfield surplus, which could lead to Jarren Duran being traded to another team.”

Q: What are your predictions for the Mets trade deadline?
“I believe that Stearns will be more aggressive than last season. The team needs a bat in CF (Duran would fit because he is very versatile and Mendoza can bat him anywhere in the order). If the Mets went for Suarez, he would ideally be the DH bc of the logjam at 3B (Vientos, Mauricio, Baty).”

Q: Do you think McLean or Gilbert will appear in 2025?
“I believe that McLean is definitely ready for an appearance in 2025, it doesn’t hurt to give him a shot in the majors. If the Mets don’t trade for a CF, I can see them calling up Gilbert to give him a shot in the second half.”

Q: Do you agree with David Stearns’ philosophy on his prospects?
“Yes, I agree with Stearns’ philosophy on being patient with the prospects. I feel that it is better to let them continue to develop, and there is no need to rush them and possibly slow their development.”

Q: What are your predictions for the Mets to end the season?
“The Mets will make the playoffs as a Wild Card, as the Phillies will edge the Mets in the division because of their pitching. I can see the team making the NLCS again, but losing to the Dodgers in a very close series.”

Photo Credit: nydailynews.com