Mets face harsh criticism as season winds down; columnist calls display 'shameful'

A New York Mets season that has failed to meet expectations drew sharp criticism Friday from a New York Post columnist who called the team's display "utterly shameful" and questioned the value of the refrain that the players are "trying" hard.

In the column, the Mets were described as more of a spectacle than a contender, with the author arguing that effort alone should not excuse a string of defeats and sloppy performances. The piece compared the club's public narrative to the neighbor who borrows money and rarely remembers to pay it back, noting that the label of being a "very good father" does not erase the consequences of repeated mistakes. The column's pointed language reflects frustration among fans and observers as the season winds toward its end and management faces difficult choices about the club's roster and direction.

Beyond the column, the season's arc has been marked by uneven performances, late-game lulls, and bullpen missteps that have prevented the Mets from sustaining winning streaks or building consistent momentum. While specific game-by-game results vary, the overarching narrative is one of unfulfilled potential and a franchise that has struggled to translate talent into steady success. The column's critique points to systemic issues rather than a single bad stretch, challenging the idea that hard work alone will compensate for broader gaps in talent, depth, and strategic execution.

The piece also touched on ownership and payroll, noting that owner Steve Cohen is expected to finalize season-end financial decisions in the coming days. The implication is that spending levels and roster plans could shape the club's direction in the near term, with the organization weighing how aggressively to pursue upgrades or how to reallocate resources to develop young players.

As the Mets approach the final stretch of a season that many expected to contend more aggressively, analysts say the test will be how the franchise responds in the offseason. Rebuilding or shoring up a bullpen, acquiring impact hitters, and adding pitching depth are common routes teams pursue after a disappointing year, but teams must balance costs with the goal of returning to competitive form. The New York Post column represents one of several media takes on the franchise's trajectory under ownership that began amid high expectations but has since become a focal point for debate among fans, reporters, and industry observers.