The New York Mets have officially announced that Carlos Mendoza will return as the team's manager for the 2026 season. This decision was confirmed by general manager David Stearns on Monday, following the Mets' elimination from postseason contention after a disappointing Game 162 loss to the Miami Marlins.
In addition to Mendoza's return, Stearns indicated that the team will conduct evaluations of its entire coaching staff in the upcoming week. The results of these evaluations will guide decisions regarding the coaching lineup for the next season, which is crucial for the Mets as they aim to improve their standings in the National League.
Just a few months ago, it seemed unlikely that Mendoza's position would be in question. He had remarkably led the Mets to an unexpected run to the NL Championship Series in 2024. The team experienced a strong start to the 2025 season, boasting the best record in Major League Baseball on June 12, with a remarkable 21 games over .500 at 45-24. At that point, they held a substantial 5.5-game lead in the NL East division over the Philadelphia Phillies.
Unfortunately, the Mets' performance took a downturn, as they recorded a disheartening 38-55 record over their final 93 games. This poor stretch left them better off only than the Chicago White Sox, Washington Nationals, Minnesota Twins, and Colorado Rockies, culminating in an overall season record of 83-79. Despite this, the Mets still entered the final day of the season with a chance to secure the last NL Wild Card berth. However, their hopes were dashed with the loss to the Marlins.
Carlos Mendoza is set to continue with the Mets as he has one more year left on his current contract, which includes a club option for the 2027 season. This extension reflects the team's confidence in his leadership as they look to bounce back from a challenging season and make a stronger push for postseason glory in the coming years.
The Mets are now focusing on the future, analyzing their coaching staff and preparing for the 2026 season. With Carlos Mendoza at the helm, fans hope for a return to form and a more competitive roster that can secure a spot in the postseason.
