The New York Mets face a unique challenge heading into the 2025 season as they try to maintain the special team chemistry that fueled their unexpected run to the National League Championship Series last year while integrating high-profile additions like Juan Soto.
After signing Soto to a record-breaking contract and bringing back Pete Alonso just before spring training, the Mets have significantly higher expectations this season. What remains uncertain is whether they can recapture the distinctive culture that developed during their remarkable 2024 campaign.
\"Last year the culture was created,\" Francisco Lindor said. \"It\'s a matter of continuing it.\"
Team president David Stearns acknowledged the importance of clubhouse chemistry while noting its unpredictability. \"Culture is very important,\" Stearns said. \"Culture is also very difficult to predict.\"
The 2024 Mets became known for unique cultural touchpoints, including the purple McDonald\'s character Grimace becoming an unofficial mascot, a viral team anthem called \"OMG\" by infielder Jose Iglesias (who wasn\'t re-signed), and Alonso\'s \"lucky pumpkin\" during their October run.
To avoid another slow start like last year\'s 0-5 beginning and 22-33 record through May, players have already held team meetings during spring training to establish a strong foundation with new additions.
\"At the end of the day, we know who we are and that\'s the beauty of our club,\" Alonso said. \"Not just who we are talent-wise, but who each individual is as a man and a personality. For us, our major, major strength is our collective identity as a unit.\"