Juan Soto reaches to catch a fly ball during the Mets' game in Miami on Sept. 26, 2025. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

The Mets were an eyesore defensively for much of last season, leading to president of baseball operations David Stearns’ decree that run prevention — encompassing pitching and defense — would be the focal point for 2026.

But the reality is, only so much defensive improvement can be implemented externally. Juan Soto isn’t going anywhere, and Francisco Lindor and Brandon Nimmo most likely aren’t going anywhere. There are only so many levers Stearns can pull in an attempt to improve the club’s defense.

Stearns revealed at the general managers’ meetings this week that he’s already spoken to much of the veteran core about the need for better defense. His message has ess

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