Texas Rangers second baseman Marcus Semien, who was part of the 2022 Rangers team that overcame a significant mid-season deficit, has noted the similarities to the current New York Mets squad, which is grappling with an extended period of poor performance.
The Mets recently hosted the Kansas City Royals at Citi Field and were set to welcome the Boston Red Sox, matchups that evoke memories of their 1986 World Series victory over Boston, their last championship. However, the current iteration of the Mets lacks the historical context of that championship team, with players like A.J. Ewing acknowledging only having heard of the team's past successes.
Semien's experience with the Rangers offers a potential roadmap for the Mets. In 2022, the Rangers were 10-26 on May 10, but a series of strategic moves and improved play led them to a 75-58 record in their final 133 games, ultimately making the postseason. Semien suggested that a similar dramatic turnaround is possible for the Mets, though the question remains when and how they might achieve it.
The Mets' current struggles have put their aspirations of reaching and winning another World Series in doubt, with the hope of replicating past glories seemingly distant. The team has been in a slump for weeks, prompting discussions about the potential for a reversal of fortune.
Ewing, who hit a single in the fifth inning against the Royals on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at Citi Field, represents a new generation of Mets players who may not have a deep understanding of the team's championship history. While the '86 Mets are remembered for their electrifying performance, the current team faces the challenge of creating its own legacy amidst a period of difficulty.