With the Mets facing an eleven-game losing streak leading up to Tuesday, it seems like Carlos Mendoza’s role as manager might be in question, especially when browsing social media and chatting with fans.
However, he seems to have the backing of the most crucial Mets fan: the owner.
Mendoza shared that he had texted Steve Cohen before the series opener against the Twins, receiving encouragement right when the team’s performance seemed poised to derail the season early.
“Steve was really supportive, along with Alex [Cohen],” Mendoza mentioned. “They understand what we’re feeling; he appreciates the challenges I’m facing and what the team is enduring. It was reassuring to hear his support.”
This kind of reassurance is significant.
Having spent years coaching the Yankees before taking over as manager for the Mets, Mendoza is all too familiar with the pressures that come when losses pile up.
“We’re aware this is a business, and results are needed on the field,” Mendoza explained.
Cohen had previously emphasized in spring training that the expectation—rather, the requirement—this year is to make it to the postseason.
“It’s a gamble on whether we’ll make the playoffs,” Cohen said back in February. He pointed out that missing the postseason two years in a row isn’t ideal.
As usual, Cohen was present at Citi Field for the start of a critical nine-game homestand. He expressed concern over his team’s performance but felt “calm and focused.”
Juan Soto’s return is anticipated to provide a boost, as he’s expected back from injury on Wednesday. His absence since April 3 due to a calf strain has certainly impacted the team, yet deeper issues persist.
This tough start has intensified scrutiny on Mendoza and Baseball Operations President David Stearns, especially following last year’s disappointing finish.
“When things aren’t going well, it’s what you expect, and it brings a lot of changes,” Mendoza said. “I focus all my energy on management, guidance, and supporting the players. I’ve been in this city long enough to know the stakes. I understand the frustrations of our fans; however, we need to take charge, starting with getting the best from our players.”
Unfortunately, the newly assembled lineup has been underwhelming, registering one of the weakest offenses in the league.
The team’s new additions, including Bo Bichette, Jorge Polanco, and Marcus Semien, along with existing stars like Francisco Lindor and rookie Carson Benge, have all struggled to find their rhythm. The bullpen hasn’t been much better, with Luke Weaver and Devin Williams delivering subpar performances.
The initial weeks of the season have definitely been challenging.
Mendoza’s responsibility now is to prevent any further decline.
“That’s my role as a leader,” he said. “The chorus of voices is increasing, proclaiming that ‘the world is ending’ for the Mets. We’re living through it right now. We need to hit the brakes and keep perspective. I have a sense of the urgency based on my experiences in this city. But at the same time, let’s take a breath. Everyone is projecting what New York could become, and here we are. If we manage to perform well during this homestand, I have no doubt we’d hear cheers from the crowd.”
