Mets Owner Steve Cohen Frustrated After Another Playoff Miss

Cohen remains committed to building a championship team, but acknowledges challenges ahead of 2026 season.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 4:04am

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A fractured, geometric painting depicting a baseball game or match, with sharp, overlapping planes in muted colors, conceptually representing the Mets' fragmented performance and their owner's growing frustration.A cubist interpretation of the Mets' ongoing struggle to break through and reach the playoffs, reflecting the team's fragmented performance and the owner's growing frustration.Los Angeles Today

Mets owner Steve Cohen is visibly frustrated after the team failed to make the playoffs again, despite his bold goal of winning a World Series within five years. Cohen has taken a methodical and patient approach to rebuilding the team, investing heavily in the roster and trusting the vision of team president David Stearns. However, Cohen is cautious about the looming threat of a 2027 lockout and is listening to all sides on the salary cap issue. He's focusing on controlling what he can, allowing Stearns to manage the team, and concentrating on the players and their performance.

Why it matters

The Mets' continued playoff drought under Cohen's ownership has heightened tensions and raised questions about the team's long-term direction. As one of the league's highest-spending franchises, the Mets' inability to reach the postseason has frustrated both the owner and the fan base.

The details

Cohen set a bold goal six years ago of winning a World Series within five years, but that timeline has now expired without a championship. While the Mets' projected 2026 payroll of $364 million is second only to the Dodgers, key player departures without adequate replacements have heightened Cohen's anxiety. The team is focusing on developing its farm system and young talent, with promising prospects like Christian Scott making an impact.

  • Six years ago, Cohen set a goal of winning a World Series within five years.
  • The Mets recently celebrated the 40th anniversary of their 1986 championship team.

The players

Steve Cohen

The owner of the New York Mets, who has invested heavily in the team but is frustrated by their continued failure to reach the playoffs.

David Stearns

The Mets' team president, who Cohen has entrusted with the vision and management of the team.

Christian Scott

A promising Mets prospect who is impressing with his fastballs and new pitches as he returns from Tommy John surgery.

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What they’re saying

“I'd be disappointed if we don't win a World Series in the next five years.”

— Steve Cohen, Mets Owner

What’s next

Cohen is focused on controlling what he can, allowing Stearns to manage the team, and concentrating on the players and their performance. He is also closely monitoring the looming threat of a 2027 lockout and is listening to all sides on the salary cap issue.

The takeaway

The Mets' continued playoff drought under Cohen's ownership has heightened tensions and raised questions about the team's long-term direction. While Cohen remains committed to building a championship team, he acknowledges the challenges ahead, including the threat of a 2027 lockout and the need to balance his financial capabilities with the Dodgers' strength.