David Stearns addresses the media after a disappointing Mets season

Stearns had to walk a tightrope with his answers, acknowledging his mistakes in building the 2026 squad while also sharing a message of optimism with a team that finished 34-31 after the All-Star break.

It didn't take long for Pete Alonso or the now-cursed phrase 'run prevention' forever associated with Stearns to be brought up. Still, the executive pointed to the team's improved cohesiveness after Andy Green took over managerial duties following Carlos Mendoza's firing, as well as the exciting young talent that flourished as the season went on.

"The disappointment of this season is very true and real. I feel that, we as an organization, feel that, our fan base feels that. There's no denying any of that, Stearns said. "There is also the real foundation here for the level of success and competitiveness that we expect to have, and that is also real."