The New York Mets have been one of the biggest disappointments of the 2026 season. The first of what could be many changes came on Friday.
Jon Heyman of the New York Post reported that manager Carlos Mendoza has been let go by the Mets. The Mets announced that former Padres and Cubs manager, and current Mets farm director, Andy Green will take over in an interim capacity for the rest of the season.
The writing had been on the wall for Mendoza since the end of the 2025 season. The Mets had a 75-64 record on Sept. 5, holding a five-game lead over the Reds for the final wild-card spot. They were 8-15 down the stretch, missing the playoffs entirely.
Carlos Mendoza not entirely at fault for New York Mets collapse
Despite that collapse, Mendoza was brought back for the 2026 season. President of baseball operations David Stearns made wholesale changes to the roster, emphasizing run prevention while acquiring impact players such as infielder Bo Bichette and pitcher Freddy Peralta. Second baseman Marcus Semien was acquired for outfielder Brandon Nimmo as the Mets attempted to improve their infield defense.
The majority of those moves have backfired. The trades for Semien and outfielder Luis Robert, as well as the signings of Bichette and infielder Jorge Polanco, have been a disaster. Closer Devin Williams has not been able to regain the form he showed in Milwaukee. Although injuries have played a significant factor in the Mets disappointing start to the season, that is a hollow excuse for a team which began the year with World Series aspirations.
Removing Mendoza as the Mets manager is not likely to suddenly turn the Mets into a contender. However, he could be the first domino to fall in the organization.