The New York Mets went all-in on pitching on Day 2 of the 2025 MLB Draft, selecting Conner Ware, Zack Mack, and more. See David Stearns' draft strategy.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
If you were hoping the Mets would use Day 2 of the 2025 MLB Draft to find their next slugging corner outfielder or slick-fielding shortstop, you might be a little disappointed. But if you believe championships are built on the mound, then Tuesday was a banner day. David Stearns and the front office made their philosophy crystal clear: you can never, ever have enough pitching, and they're willing to bet on high-upside talent to prove it.
60 stolen bases in 55 games.
The theme of the day was unmistakable: power arms. The Mets spent pick after pick targeting pitchers, signaling a deep commitment to restocking the minor league system from the mound out. The haul included LSU left-hander Conner Ware, Loyola Marymount righty Zack Mack, and a pair of hard-throwing right-handers in Dillon Stiltner from the high school ranks and Joe Scarborough from Jacksonville State. The trend continued with Garrett Stratton and others, many of whom fit a specific profile: high potential, but with risks. Whether it's a past injury or inconsistent command, the Mets are clearly trusting their development system to polish these players into future big-league contributors.
The one departure from the day's pitching-first strategy was the selection of shortstop Sam Robertson from Northwest Shoals Community College. Robertson represents a different kind of lottery ticket. While his overall offensive and defensive tools are considered raw, he possesses one truly elite, game-changing skill: speed. After swiping an incredible 60 bases in just 55 games, Robertson is the definition of a specialist. The Mets are betting that his legs can create value while the rest of his game catches up, a low-risk flier on a player who can manufacture runs all by himself.
This draft strategy isn't random; it's a direct reflection of David Stearns' team-building philosophy. By loading up on cost-controlled pitchers, the Mets are building a sustainable foundation for the future. Developing homegrown arms is the most efficient way to build a quality pitching staff, freeing up payroll to pursue top-tier bats in free agency. It’s a long-term vision that requires patience, as most of these players are years away from Queens. However, it’s a proven formula for creating a perennial contender, and today's selections show the front office is fully committed to that plan.
While draft day doesn't provide the instant gratification of a walk-off homer, days like today are where future championships are forged. The Mets have placed their bets on a mountain of pitching talent, and now the real work begins for the player development staff. As the draft wraps up, fans can feel confident that the organization has a clear, long-term plan to keep the pitching pipeline flowing for years to come.
