New York Mets’ Slow Start: Carlos Mendoza’s Job Security Not in Jeopardy, Despite Struggles

The New York Mets’ 2026 season has gotten off to a sluggish start, and the team’s poor finish to the previous year has only added to the concerns. With owner Steve Cohen’s massive payroll investment, expectations are high, and the performance so far has led many to question manager Carlos Mendoza’s future with the team. However, according to reporting by Will Sammon of The Athletic, those concerns about Mendoza’s job security may be premature.

Manager Mendoza’s Role in Mets’ Struggles

Sammon highlights that most of the Mets’ issues are not directly related to Mendoza. The team’s offensive struggles — most notably an inability to capitalize on scoring opportunities and poor hitting performance — are beyond the manager’s control. As Sammon puts it plainly, “Let’s lean into the absurdity of discussing a manager’s job in the middle of April and say it plainly: I don’t think Carlos Mendoza at this point is in danger of losing his job. And he shouldn’t be.”

Indeed, the manager can only do so much. Mendoza cannot physically swing the bat for his players or step up to the plate in critical situations, such as when runners are in scoring position — two significant problems currently plaguing the Mets’ offense.

Solid Team Preparation and Effort

Despite the team’s early struggles, the aspects of the game where a manager can have the most impact — team preparation and player buy-in — have been solid. Veteran outfielder Tommy Pham, who had previously been critical of the Mets’ work ethic in 2023, has praised the team’s current approach. According to Pham, the players have been preparing well, showing commitment through early arrivals for extended batting practice sessions and demonstrating strong effort day in and day out.

Optimism from Owner Steve Cohen

In the wake of a tough loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers, owner Steve Cohen struck an optimistic tone about the team’s direction. Cohen pointed out “green shoots” in the offense, including positive contributions from key players like Francisco Lindor and Bo Bichette. Cohen also highlighted the progress of Juan Soto’s running program, showing that even in the face of adversity, there are signs of improvement. Importantly, Cohen did not express any urgency to make a managerial change, which would signal confidence in Mendoza and his approach.

Mendoza’s Personal Responsibility and Respect in the Clubhouse

Carlos Mendoza has taken the early losses personally, which has garnered him respect from the Mets’ clubhouse. His ability to handle adversity and continue to show leadership in difficult times has earned the trust of his players. While the Mets have a largely new roster and coaching staff this season, Mendoza is still in the process of building the necessary cohesion and chemistry that could help the team find consistency as the season progresses.

Injuries and Offensive Struggles Plaguing the Mets

The Mets’ primary struggles this season have been offensive woes, compounded by injuries to key players like Juan Soto and Jorge Polanco. Soto, who is a major offensive weapon for the team, has yet to fully find his rhythm, and his absence due to injury has left a significant hole in the lineup. These injuries, along with the team’s inability to capitalize on scoring opportunities, have created a difficult environment for Mendoza and his staff.

Questionable Decisions Not the Core Issue

Though there have been some questionable decisions by Mendoza regarding lineups and bullpen management, these decisions are not the primary reason for the team’s slow start. The real issue lies in the team’s offensive struggles and injuries, which are out of the manager’s control.

Patience from Front Office and David Stearns

Mendoza has the support of David Stearns, the Mets’ president of baseball operations, who handpicked Mendoza as the team’s manager. Stearns is known for his patience, having never fired a manager or coach mid-season during his time with the Mets or the Brewers. Stearns is committed to allowing Mendoza the time and space he needs to build a cohesive, competitive team.

With only about 18 games played and more than 140 remaining, it is far too early to panic. The Mets have not even begun their divisional games, meaning there is still ample opportunity for the team to turn things around as the season progresses.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for the Mets?

If the Mets continue to struggle by Memorial Day and are still near the bottom of the standings, the conversation around Mendoza’s future could shift. However, as of now, Carlos Mendoza’s job is not in immediate danger. The Mets simply need time to work through this early-season rough patch and find their rhythm.

In conclusion, the Mets’ front office is showing patience, and the team’s preparation remains solid despite early struggles. Mendoza’s leadership, while being tested, remains secure for now. As long as the players continue to put in the effort and remain committed, and the injuries to key players like Soto heal, there is still hope for a turnaround. The 2026 season is still young, and there’s plenty of time for the Mets to recover and meet their expectations for the season.