Oh, the pain of missing a train! Whether it’s in love or life, a missed opportunity always comes back to haunt human minds. Sports are no different. In fact, sports increase that pain even more – just as the New York Mets fans. Starting in the back, the Mets slowly made their way to the forefront of the Yoshinobu Yamamoto race. The long shots had suddenly become one of the key players, but then the Yamamoto train stopped at the Dodger Stadium. Ever since then, the Queens’ fans have been on a journey of regret.

But even during the dark clouds, there is always a hint of sunshine. The fans of the Amazin’ Mets have chosen to look at that light. “So what if we lose the race for a superstar?” they say, “There’s still a lot to be positive about in this team”.

The loss of Yoshinobu Yamamoto – A shattering of dreams for New York Mets

Something broke when Yoshinobu Yamamoto chose the LA Dodgers over other New York teams. Even though the Yankees fans were hurt as well, they had a consolation in the fact that the Bronx Squad had stopped its bidding at $300 million. The Mets weren’t limited and matched the $325 million offer of the Dodgers. So losing stung. The Athletic’s fan survey shows that the wounds are still fresh. 

Answering the question about going back in time to sign one player, 49.6% of the Mets fans voted that they’d do it for Yoshinobu Yamamoto. It’s an obvious pick for many reasons, as not only were the fans extremely enthralled by the ace but also wanted to create their Japanese super lineup with Kodai Senga.

This also lines up with the chief complaint of many long-term Mets fans – the team didn’t compete as aggressively as it could have. Despite the owner Steve Cohen flying to Japan to meet Yamamoto and then having dinner with him in the States, he merely matched the Blue Crew’s valuation. This whiffed the Mets fans, who wished the team increased the price even more. 

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But the survey wasn’t limited to just this question. It was a comprehensive test and there were some interesting answers given by the Mets fans. 

The ray of hope in the tunnel of despair 

There came a question that asked who the fans were most positive about. Though the votes were pretty evenly divided, former Yankee Luis Severino won with 34% votes! The talent of Severino is undeniable, but injuries had negatively affected his final years with the Pinstripes. If he stays healthy, the fastball merchant would perhaps be one of the most talented pitchers on the Queens Side currently. 

Surprisingly, the fans only gave a “B” rating to the Mets’ offseason. Most already expected such silence because of the deadline day activities last season. Still, overall, the environment in the Queens looks to be of a reserved optimism. Heartbreaks are natural, but moving on is the only option.

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