Mets Post-Deadline Rebuild and September Evaluations

The season ended with a four-game losing streak, an Orioles sweep and a 3-0 shutout loss to Philadelphia on Sept. 17. Weak offense, emergency pitching usage, season-ending injuries and defensive mistakes have intensified scrutiny of the roster, payroll and pitching staff, while Carlos Mendoza's firing makes the managerial search an immediate priority. Carlos Beltrán has been noncommittal about interest, and a proposed Paul Skenes trade remains speculation rather than a reported negotiation.