Mets Owner Says Team Won't Have Captain While He's in Charge

Steve Cohen praises the atmosphere around the team's revamped roster.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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The owner of the New York Mets, Steve Cohen, praised the atmosphere around the team's revamped roster on Monday and stated that the club will never have a captain as long as he is in charge.

Why it matters

The decision to not have a team captain is an unusual one in Major League Baseball, where many teams traditionally have a veteran player serve in that leadership role. Cohen's comments suggest he wants to maintain tight control over the team's culture and direction.

The details

Cohen said the Mets will not have a captain as long as he owns the team. He praised the atmosphere around the team's revamped roster, which includes several high-profile offseason acquisitions. The Mets have not had a team captain since David Wright retired in 2018.

  • Steve Cohen made these comments on Monday, February 16, 2026.

The players

Steve Cohen

The owner of the New York Mets.

David Wright

The last team captain for the New York Mets, who retired in 2018.

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What they’re saying

“The Mets will never have a captain as long as I'm here.”

— Steve Cohen, Mets Owner (Houston Chronicle)

The takeaway

Cohen's decision to not have a team captain reflects his hands-on approach to running the Mets and his desire to maintain control over the team's culture and leadership. This is an unusual move in MLB, where team captains are common, but it aligns with Cohen's reputation as a demanding owner who wants to put his personal stamp on the franchise.