MLB playoff results aren’t giving NY Mets owner Steve Cohen incentive to spend

Rising Apple's Tim Boyle argues that the 2026 MLB playoff success of low-budget teams reduces New York Mets owner Steve Cohen's incentive to maintain massive payrolls. Several low-spending clubs, including the Cleveland Guardians, Tampa Bay Rays, and Milwaukee Brewers, advanced deep into the postseason while high spenders like the Mets, New York Yankees, and San Diego Padres were eliminated early.

The Mets carry a projected $286 million payroll for 2027 despite failing to reach the World Series during Cohen's tenure. Boyle contends that Cohen and president of baseball operations David Stearns must pivot away from buying high-priced talent, focusing instead on clever acquisitions, prospect development, and cost-effective roster construction.