Manager Carlos Mendoza and Mets’ Struggles

In Chicago, Manager Carlos Mendoza isn’t holding the Mets’ slow start against them.

On Friday, David Stearns, the team’s director of baseball operations, stood by Mendoza despite an eight-game losing streak where the team has struggled to score runs.

Stearns expressed confidence in Mendoza’s abilities, stating, “I think Mendy is doing a really good job. He puts our players in a position to succeed. He’s very consistent.”

When asked how Mendoza achieves this, Stearns explained, “It’s about how he manages the clubhouse and provides the players with the right matchups, both in the bullpen and during games. I think he’s doing a good job.”

Having revamped the roster in the offseason, Stearns believes in his players and looks forward to a turnaround.

“We’re not hitting. It can feel stagnant when we’re like this,” he said. “I think we’re playing hard. Our guys are preparing. But when you’re not getting hits or baserunners, it feels like nothing’s happening, and I get that.”

Stearns pointed out that strengthening the defense was a key aspect of their roster rebuilding.

He conveyed his satisfaction with their defensive progress, remarking, “We have certainly improved over the years. While it hasn’t been perfect defensively, I can’t say we’ve had any significant issues there.”

He also expressed optimism about Francisco Lindor’s performance, noting that Lindor has faced some mental lapses on defense and base running early in the season.

Stearns added, “He’s not perfect. No one is. This is just one of those moments in his career; it happens. I don’t think we’ll see that continue.”