Trump Criticizes Mets’ Performance While Lauding Braves Leadership in Georgia Campaign Speech

The New York Mets continue to struggle despite entering the season with significant roster changes and the highest payroll commitments in baseball through 2026. On pace to lose 95 games this year, the franchise faces its worst performance since 2003 following last summer’s disappointing collapse despite holding the league’s best record and a record $329 million payroll.

During remarks at a Georgia campaign event, President Donald Trump did not spare the struggling franchise from criticism. “The Mets have the highest salary in baseball, and they lose all the time,” Trump said before a crowd likely filled with Atlanta Braves supporters, though the Los Angeles Dodgers technically carry the largest current payroll due to deferrals built into their contracts.

The president pivoted to praise Braves Development Company CEO Mike Plant, calling him exceptional at maintaining winning rosters. Trump noted Plant’s ability to keep the organization competitive even after losing star first baseman Freddie Freeman to the Dodgers, suggesting other struggling franchises should “maybe steal this guy” from Atlanta.

The Mets’ disappointment stems partly from underperformance by new acquisitions. Juan Soto’s record $765 million contract signed in December 2024 anchors the payroll, but the team ranks 27th in batting average and 28th in on-base plus slugging while posting the ninth-worst ERA in baseball. New York currently sits 43-60, trailing the division-leading Braves by 17 games.

Recent roster moves have backfired as the Mets allowed Pete Alonso and Edwin Diaz to depart in free agency while acquiring Jorge Polanco, Luis Robert, and others. Polanco has hit just .165 while dealing with injuries, and Robert is batting .211 following his own injury setbacks. The organization has made nearly everyone available for trade except Soto and select young talent.