As the New York Mets usher in a new era under President of Baseball Operations David Stearns, fans are eager to see how he will reshape the team’s roster for the 2025 season and beyond. Known for his analytical approach and successful track record with the Milwaukee Brewers, Stearns is expected to make moves that bolster the Mets’ roster while balancing the long-term health of the franchise. While Stearns will likely focus on both trades and free agent signings, there are a few key former Mets players who could return to the team in the 2025 season. These players, all free agents, bring valuable experience, talent, and leadership, which could help the Mets immediately while also providing flexibility for the future. Here are three exceptional free agents from the Mets that David Stearns might consider bringing back:
1. Justin Verlander (SP)
Overview: Justin Verlander, a future Hall of Famer and one of the most accomplished pitchers of his generation, was acquired by the Mets in the 2022 offseason to anchor their rotation. However, after a single season in New York, Verlander was traded to the Houston Astros in 2023 as part of a larger rebuilding effort. While his time with the Mets was brief, it was also highly impactful, as he showcased his trademark ability to pitch at an elite level.
At 41 years old, Verlander is still performing at an All-Star caliber, evidenced by his dominant 2023 campaign with the Astros. He posted a 3.15 ERA and 9.3 strikeouts per nine innings, and he was instrumental in Houston’s World Series victory. His experience, leadership, and ability to thrive in big moments make him an attractive option for any team, especially one like the Mets, who may need a veteran presence in their rotation moving forward.
Why David Stearns Might Bring Him Back: Stearns has always valued pitching depth and stability, and Verlander would certainly provide both of those attributes to the Mets’ rotation. While the Mets have young and talented pitchers such as Kodai Senga and David Peterson, the addition of a veteran like Verlander could help stabilize a rotation that has struggled with injuries and inconsistency in recent seasons. Moreover, Stearns has a strong track record of valuing established players who can provide leadership in a clubhouse, and Verlander’s pedigree as a future Hall of Famer would make him a highly valuable mentor to the younger pitchers on the roster.
Additionally, Verlander’s potential for success in the postseason could be especially appealing to the Mets as they look to contend in the coming seasons. Bringing him back could also signal a commitment to winning immediately, aligning with the aggressive approach that Stearns took with the Brewers during his tenure in Milwaukee.
Fit on the Mets: Verlander could slot into the front of the Mets’ rotation, potentially alongside Senga, creating a one-two punch of veteran leadership and dominant pitching. Given the Mets’ strong financial position, they may be willing to sign Verlander to a short-term contract with an eye on contention, knowing his impact could be far-reaching both on the field and in the clubhouse. Stearns might prefer the stability Verlander offers over taking a gamble on unproven younger pitchers or a lower-ceiling free-agent option.
2. Brandon Nimmo (CF)
Overview: Brandon Nimmo is one of the most dynamic outfielders in the majors, with excellent plate discipline, elite on-base skills, and above-average defensive abilities. After a standout 2022 season, Nimmo was re-signed by the Mets to an eight-year, $162 million contract to keep him in New York. While his tenure with the Mets has been marked by consistent production, the 2025 offseason could offer a potential turning point for both Nimmo and the team.
While Nimmo is not technically a “free agent” yet, his contract would allow the Mets to make decisions regarding his future as the 2025 season unfolds. Nimmo is due to earn significant money, and the Mets could choose to reassess his fit if the team is looking to pivot in a different direction. Still, considering his solid defense, leadership, and ability to get on base, he remains an integral part of the Mets’ lineup.
Why David Stearns Might Bring Him Back: Stearns has always valued players who can contribute both offensively and defensively, and Nimmo fits that mold perfectly. With Stearns’ emphasis on building a well-rounded team that excels in all facets of the game, Nimmo’s ability to get on base (he consistently posts OBPs over .350) while playing excellent defense in center field would make him a key piece in any Mets roster Stearns constructs.
Moreover, Stearns has a history of keeping key players on the roster, especially those who fit the mold of solid, reliable performers. Nimmo has established himself as a leader in the Mets’ clubhouse and has good rapport with the coaching staff. His consistency at the top of the lineup could serve as a stabilizing force in a potentially revamped Mets offense.
The Mets’ outfield situation in 2025 may include other players like Starling Marte, but Nimmo’s presence could provide a level of continuity and comfort for the team. His offensive profile—solid power with excellent on-base skills—would add balance to a lineup that could feature heavy hitters in the middle. Additionally, Nimmo’s defensive prowess would help balance a Mets outfield that could be looking for improvement in both defense and depth.
Fit on the Mets: Assuming the Mets opt to bring Nimmo back or retain him through his contract, his role as an everyday center fielder and leadoff hitter would be secure. His familiarity with the organization and with Stearns’ management style could make him a trusted figure on a new-look Mets team, providing stability as other parts of the roster change. Nimmo’s leadership both on and off the field would be an asset in a clubhouse that may undergo significant transitions in the coming seasons.
3. Eduardo Escobar (INF)
Overview: Eduardo Escobar was a key signing for the Mets ahead of the 2022 season, bringing a veteran presence to the infield. Escobar’s first season in New York was marked by inconsistency, but he bounced back in 2023, delivering some solid performances at the plate and continuing to provide versatility in the infield. While he may not be the flashiest name on the free-agent market, Escobar is a proven contributor who can play multiple infield positions and provide a solid bat off the bench.
Escobar’s ability to play both second and third base allows the Mets to consider him as an option for a utility role in 2025. While he is no longer the player he once was in his prime, his value lies in his ability to provide depth and experience to a team that could be looking to add flexibility and depth to the roster.
Why David Stearns Might Bring Him Back: Stearns has a history of valuing veteran players who offer flexibility and can contribute in a variety of roles. With the Mets’ infield in flux and younger players like Brett Baty and Luis Guillorme likely battling for regular spots, Escobar could return as a veteran backup or platoon option, particularly as a pinch-hitter or late-inning defensive replacement. Stearns might see Escobar as a valuable piece in a reserve role, where his experience could help guide the younger infielders while providing adequate production when needed.
In his brief time with the Mets, Escobar also proved to be a steady clubhouse presence. Stearns might value Escobar’s leadership and mentorship abilities, especially with a potential turnover in the roster. Given the Mets’ potential need for depth across the infield, Escobar’s ability to play both second and third base could make him an attractive free agent target.
Fit on the Mets: Escobar might return to the Mets as a utility infielder and veteran presence on a bench that could feature several younger players. His ability to step in at multiple positions and contribute in key moments makes him a solid fit for a team looking to contend without breaking the bank for a starting-caliber player.
Conclusion
David Stearns has a clear vision for the future of the New York Mets, and while many changes are expected, it’s not out of the question that he might bring back a few familiar faces from the previous roster. Justin Verlander, Brandon Nimmo, and Eduardo Escobar each bring valuable experience, leadership, and skills that could contribute to a successful 2025 season for the Mets. While Stearns will certainly explore other avenues to improve the roster, these three players offer specific traits that align well with his management philosophy. Whether in leadership roles, pitching, or providing depth, these players could play a significant part in helping the Mets reach the next level.
