The return of Jonah Tong to the Mets rotation Monday in Miami is a now moment for a team lacking in real-time meaning.
The Mets could never imagine when this season began that the only anticipation for their final homestand that begins next Monday will be how much love is given to a visiting player (Pete Alonso), how much indifference there is for a number retirement ceremony (Carlos Beltrán) and how loud the “put it in the books!” is for a beloved broadcaster (Howie Rose).
As for current Mets, even Tong’s present moment is overshadowed by future implications. For weeks — months, really — 2026 has faded in meaning as the focus shifts to 2027 and beyond.
And David Stearns has real impediments as he tries to strategize for the future. Whether a new collective bargaining agreement includes a salary cap or more draconian penalties for big spenders, Stearns will likely have to cut payroll. So anyone envisioning Steve Cohen’s wallet being thrown at Tarik Skubal should take that under advisement.
