Full Breakdown
Mets' Early-Season Collapse Puts Manager Carlos Mendoza on the Hot Seat
4/29/2026, 9:26:49 PM
Background: Recent Managerial Firings in the NL East
Within the first month of 2026, Boston fired Alex Cora (10-17) and Philadelphia dismissed Rob Thomson (9-19), fueling speculation that New York could follow.
Key Figures: Carlos Mendoza, David Stearns, Steve Cohen, and Player Voices
Carlos Mendoza, in his third year, was chosen by president of baseball operations David Stearns after 2023. Owner Steve Cohen has not commented on Mendoza’s status. Players speaking include Juan Soto, Francisco Lindor and reliever Tobias Myers.
Numbers: Record, Offensive Rankings, Payroll, Injuries
The Mets are 9-19, tied for MLB’s worst record. Their offense ranks last in runs (92), OPS (.625) and wRC+. Payroll is reported as $370 M or $380 M. Injuries to Lindor, Polanco, Senga, Soto and Robert Jr. limit consistency.
Official Statements: Front Office and Mendoza’s Public Remarks
Stearns praised Mendoza’s performance, saying he was doing a good job and was consistent in his approach to positioning players. Mendoza emphasized that the situation is “business as usual,” that he is “aware of it,” and that he will “continue to show up and get the best out of my players.”
Criticism & Opposition: Analysts Question Front Office Decisions
Heavy.com commentators argue “Mendoza is far from the Mets’ biggest problem,” pointing to roster construction and payroll. Some suggest Stearns may fire Mendoza to protect his own job; others note that recent front-office moves have backfired.
On-the-Ground Reports: Player Perspectives
Juan Soto said, “This is not Mendoza’s fault at all,” while Lindor stressed teammate support. Reliever Tobias Myers added, “There’s no coach in America that can save any team,” but praised Mendoza’s communication.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps: Payroll Figures, Replacement Candidates, Contract Status
Payroll is cited as $370 M or $380 M. Replacement names include Andy Green, Kai Correa and Carlos Beltrán, though Beltrán’s availability is disputed. Mendoza’s three-year deal carries a non-exercised 2027 club option, making him a “lame-duck” manager, a detail omitted by some reports.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It sucks, what happened to those two guys, guys that I consider [two] of the best of what they're doing, especially Thomson, one of my mentors,” — Carlos Mendoza, Mets manager
- “I'm aware of it. Not going to run away from it,” — Carlos Mendoza
- “There’s no coach in America that can save any team,” — Tobias Myers, reliever
- “I think Mendy is doing a really good job,” — David Stearns, president of baseball operations
What’s Next: Potential Moves and Timeline
Stearns retains the authority to dismiss Mendoza before the next series against the Washington Nationals, a point highlighted by amNewYork as a “perfect opportunity to pull the plug” during the off-day. If a change occurs, candidates such as Andy Green or Kai Correa could be promoted, while the front office continues to address roster depth and pitching rotation concerns.
