Marcus Semien Opens Up About Why Joining the New York Mets Has Him Fired Up

 New York, NY  November 2025

When Marcus Semien spoke publicly for the first time as a New York Met, there was a sense of certainty in his voice. This wasn’t just another career stop or a routine introduction. To him, it felt significant  almost like the beginning of a new chapter he’d been waiting for.

Only a few days had passed since the major trade that sent longtime Mets standout Brandon Nimmo to Texas in exchange for Semien. Now settled into his new role, the veteran infielder explained why this move has him more motivated than he’s been in years.

And his reasons stretch far beyond on-field performance.

 “This Team Has an Edge”: Semien Breaks Down What Drew Him to the Mets

Interestingly, Semien’s excitement didn’t begin with the trade.

Last season, while recovering from an injury, he watched the Rangers play the Mets at Citi Field. Semien wasn’t on the field, but he paid close attention especially to New York’s dugout.

What he saw stuck with him.

“Their energy stood out,” Semien recalled.
“Every pitch mattered to them. They were young, competitive, and hungry. That made an impression.”

Over the last two years, the Mets have reshaped their identity with fresh talent, leadership pieces, and an aggressive style of play. Semien said that high-tempo, all-in approach was exactly the type of atmosphere he wanted to be part of.

“I thrive when I’m surrounded by players who push each other,” he said.
“That’s what I saw with the Mets, and that’s what I want to join.”

He also highlighted the team’s young core  a group he believes will define the franchise’s future.

“They remind me of my early Oakland years,” he said.
“But this group? They have an even higher ceiling.”

 “New York Was Made for People Like Me”: Why the City Feels Like Home

Ask Semien what makes New York special, and he answers immediately.

“The energy. The fanbase. The expectations. I’m drawn to that.”

Although he’s a Bay Area native, Semien said New York has always been one of the road cities he looked forward to  the noise, the atmosphere, the sense that baseball is deeply ingrained in the culture.

“In New York, every game means something,” he said.
“Every at-bat matters. I’ve always wanted that kind of pressure daily.”

He also noted that the honesty of Mets fans doesn’t intimidate him  it motivates him.

“They’ll tell you exactly how they feel. And I respect that completely.”

Semien views that intensity as something that elevates players, bringing out the best in competitors and forging playoff-ready teams.

His enthusiasm isn’t only about baseball.

He shared that his family is enthusiastic about the opportunities New York offers the cultural richness, the diversity, and the experiences their children will have.

“It’s a big change,” he said,
“but it’s the right move for us. New York is a place where families can grow. We’re excited.”

 The Leadership Role He Embraces & The Legacy He Hopes to Build

If there’s a single theme Semien stressed more than anything, it’s leadership —not the loud, fiery kind, but steady, reliable guidance that teammates trust.

“I’m here to show up, set the tone, and earn respect.”

Semien spelled out his goals clearly:

• To be in the lineup every day
• To help establish winning habits
• And to support the development of the Mets’ rising stars

He spoke openly about how veteran mentors shaped him earlier in his career, and he intends to return that same support to younger Mets players.

“Leadership isn’t about yelling,” he said.
“It’s about preparation, consistency, and helping guys learn how to survive a 162-game season.”

He understands that the organization views him as a stabilizing presence in the clubhouse  a role he welcomes wholeheartedly.

“My purpose is simple,” he said.

“Do everything I can. Raise the guys around me. Honor the uniform.”

What He Plans to Bring to Queens

• Reliable defense at second base
• Durability and daily availability
• A championship-driven mindset
• Playoff experience
• Veteran guidance for young players

Semien made it clear: this isn’t a rebuild. This isn’t a transition. This is a push for results.

“The Mets are close. With the right pieces and leadership, we can get there.”

A Closing Message to Fans

Before ending his press session, Semien shared a final sentiment  short, direct, and powerful.

“I’m ready for this. I chose this challenge. And I can’t wait to compete for this city.”

For Mets fans  still adjusting to losing a cornerstone player but hungry for a fresh spark  those words carried weight.

Marcus Semien didn’t tiptoe into New York.
He stepped in with conviction.
With purpose.
With belief.

He’s excited because he sees the Mets on the rise  and he’s determined to help lead that ascent.