NL East: Ship of fools

Perhaps you’ve heard of the Ship of Theseus paradox: How many parts can be replaced before it ceases to be that selfsame ship? Mets President of Baseball Operations David Stearns desperately hoped the answer to that millennia-old question was “four core players and your entire coaching staff, minus the manager.” Early returns, as measured by an MLB-worst 9-19 record and the number of conniptions recorded on social media, would suggest those substitutions were insufficient.

The Ship of Theseus problem is first rooted in an ontological concern (how much of a thing makes a thing that thing?), but it speaks ultimately to a metaphysical question: what is the essence of that thing? In the case of the 2026 Mets, the glut of changes was...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

Two impact Padres' starting pitchers are close to a return. Plus implications of Will Smith's neck, Rockies OF situation, and check in on young players who may be getting their chance in the NL West.
Jul 25 2026 3:07am
Shane Smith's awful season hasn't improved in the minors. Plus, two top prospects at Triple-A for CLE, Javier Báez starts a rehab assignment, and a look at SP depth in KC and MIN.
Jul 23 2026 3:05am
The Angels may be trading some starting pitchers at the deadline, and George Klassen will be ready to help the team.
Jul 22 2026 3:05am
George Lombard Jr. has returned to health; could a major league call-up be next? Plus, major trade deadline implications as several AL East teams veer towards buyer or seller territory.
Jul 21 2026 3:05am

Tools