“It can be a little bit uncomfortable” - Clay Holmes makes feelings clear on Pete Alonso, Edwin Diaz, Brandon Nimmo's exit

After missing the playoffs last season, the New York Mets were expected to bolster their roster to bounce back next season. However, the Mets' offseason dealings have puzzled the baseball community.

The NL East franchise failed to retain All-Star closer Edwin Diaz, who signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers after opting out of his Mets contract. Pete Alonso also joined a new team in free agency, ending his seven-year tenure with the Mets. The Mets also traded veteran outfielder Brandon Nimmo, who had been with the team since being selected with the 11th pick in the 2011 MLB draft.

Mets starting pitcher Clay Holmes, who shared the clubhouse with Diaz, Alonso and Nimmo during the 2025 season, reflected on the departure of the three prominent figures from the team.

"They’re great players," Holmes said. "They’ve been great Mets for a long time and really connected with the fanbase. As players, even in the clubhouse, they’re great people, so it’s always tough to see those guys go, and we wish them the best. But at the same time, it’s like, those aren’t easy decisions. "I’m sure. I don’t really know all the details behind the scenes, but to make those big decisions, I’m sure there’s got to be some type of, some growth to be had, and sometimes that can be a little uncomfortable."

With the NL East franchise losing Pete Alonso and Brandon Nimmo in the offseason, Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns is looking at potential options to fill the gap in the roster.

Mets linked with Cody Bellinger after losing Pete Alonso in free agency

All-Star outfielders Cody Bellinger and Kyle Tucker are two of the players linked with the Mets in free agency. Both Bellinger and Tucker are expected to command a lucrative contract after their strong 2025 seasons.

While the Mets have seen some of their key players depart in the offseason, they have also made a few high-profile additions. They signed All-Star reliever Devin Williams in free agency to be their designated closer.

The Mets also signed All-Star infielder Jorge Polanco to fill the potential hole left by Alonso's departure. Earlier this week, the Mets strenthrned the bullpen by adding former Yankees closer Luke Weaver on a two-year deal.

Edited by Chaitanya Prakash