Steve Cohen’s Press Conference Highlights
In Port St. Lucie, Florida, New York Mets owner Steve Cohen held his first press conference of the spring training season, revealing his philosophy on team leadership and locker room dynamics. Cohen stated unequivocally that under his ownership, the team would not designate a captain.
“The locker room is unique, and I’d prefer that it finds its own leadership organically each year,”
he explained to reporters.
Roster Changes and Optimism for the Season
Leading into this season, the Mets have seen significant changes to their roster, parting ways with well-known players such as Pete Alonso and Edwin Díaz just before Christmas. However, they bolstered their lineup by signing free agent Bo Bichette and acquiring All-Star pitcher Freddy Peralta through a trade.
Cohen expressed optimism about the team’s new look going into the third year with manager Carlos Mendoza, especially following a disappointing 2023 season where they failed to reach the playoffs for the second time in his stewardship.
“There’s a palpable energy in the locker room that’s exciting,”
he noted, referring to the team’s recent full-squad workout. He anticipates that this fresh roster will delight fans and lead to a more dynamic brand of baseball.
Leadership Philosophy and Team Chemistry
Reflecting on the long history of baseball captains, Cohen compared the Mets’ situation to that of their crosstown rivals, the New York Yankees, who had the legendary Derek Jeter as their captain. He emphasized, however, that his approach would prioritize the natural formation of team chemistry. This perspective may also influence decisions regarding the club’s star players, Francisco Lindor and Juan Soto.
Frustrations and Future Goals
Cohen acknowledged the Mets’ ups and downs under his leadership, including making the playoffs in 2022 and a frustrating exit in the 2024 NL Championship Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers. He voiced his dissatisfaction with the team’s lack of a recent World Series title, noting,
“I’m definitely annoyed. Every passing year without a championship frustrates me more. It’s been too long since 1986, and the anniversary of that title only amplifies the feeling.”
Financial Strategies and Player Development
On the topic of spending and roster management, Cohen addressed the approach of the financially aggressive Dodgers and expressed that he remains open to discussing a salary cap during upcoming collective bargaining negotiations. He conveyed a willingness to consider all perspectives and acknowledged his role as a “league-first” owner.
Despite pursuing star right fielder Kyle Tucker, who ultimately signed with the Dodgers, Cohen reassured fans about his competitive nature in building the Mets.
“When you want a player and you lose out, it’s tough, but eventually you move on and focus on the next opportunity,”
he remarked.
Investment in Player Development
In a separate initiative, the Mets are set to expand their investment in player development with the construction of a new 55,000-square-foot facility at their spring training base, which will feature upgraded locker rooms, training areas, therapy pools, and dining options. This project is part of Cohen’s broader commitment to enhancing the team’s infrastructure and nurturing player talent.
