Manager Carlos Mendoza and the New York Mets are currently seeking ways to stay competitive in a tight playoff race as the season reaches its midpoint. The Mets had a tough start this year, quickly falling behind in the NL East, but Mendoza’s team has shown resilience, clawing their way back to above the .500 mark and keeping their wild card hopes alive.

At this time of year, the MLB trade deadline, set for July 30, dominates the headlines. Mets veteran and former All-Star J.D. Martinez, reflecting on his 2021 season with the Boston Red Sox, may be subtly pressuring the team to make some moves.

“We reached the deadline and didn’t acquire anyone,” Martinez said about those Red Sox, according to Newsday. “We needed help and had to fight our way back. Fortunately, we secured a wild card spot, but we watched other teams around us improve while we didn’t. …

“I remember how demoralizing it was for the team to do nothing. Of course, there’s a cost to consider, but it’s significant. Teams and clubhouses definitely feel it.”