The New York Mets had a nightmare 2026 season and will be a team to watch closely this offseason because of it.

The Mets should be aggressively looking to strengthen their roster this offseason. One clear area that they could improve is at first base. Due to this, they are now being connected to a notable free agent.

In a recent article for Sports Illustrated, Will Laws predicted that the Mets will sign star first baseman Jake Bauers to a three-year, $54 million contract in free agency.

Bauers would be a very interesting player for the Mets to bring in this offseason. The 31-year-old just had an excellent season with the Milwaukee Brewers and showed that he can make a real impact when playing at his best. Thus, it would make sense if New York signed him as they look for more offense.

In 144 games this season with the Brewers, Bauers posted 26 home runs, 86 RBI, and a .266 batting average. If the Mets signed him and replicated this kind of hitting for them, he would be a major addition to their roster.

Thus, it would be understandable if the Mets are among the teams that pursue Bauers this offseason. The fit looks very good on paper.