UPDATE: The New York Mets have just confirmed that manager Carlos Mendoza will return for the 2026 season following a disastrous collapse that saw the team miss the playoffs. This announcement came from president of baseball operations David Stearns on Monday, just one day after the Mets concluded their season with a 4-0 loss to the Miami Marlins.
The Mets’ defeat not only dashed their playoff hopes but also allowed the Cincinnati Reds to snatch the final National League wild-card spot, despite their own loss to the Milwaukee Brewers. Both teams finished with a record of 83-79, but the Reds secured the tiebreaker, leaving the Mets’ playoff aspirations in shambles.
Stearns emphasized the need for a critical evaluation of the coaching staff within the next week, stating, “I believe Carlos has all the same traits and assets that I believed he had when we hired him two years ago.” He acknowledged the season’s disappointments, saying, “We came into this year with, deservedly so, very high expectations and we didn’t come close to meeting them.”
The Mets entered the season with hopes of a World Series run, backed by a staggering $340 million payroll, the second-highest in Major League Baseball. After a strong start that saw them hold the best record in the majors as of June 12, 2025, the team spiraled, finishing the season with a dismal 38-55 record.
Stearns did not shy away from accountability, declaring, “Tremendously disappointing season. Not nearly good enough. I’m the architect of the team. I’m responsible for it.” This candid admission underscores the urgency surrounding the Mets’ future as they move forward.
Fans and analysts alike are now watching closely to see how the Mets approach their off-season strategy. Will they make significant changes to the coaching staff, or will they double down on current leadership? The next week will be critical as the organization evaluates its path forward.
The Mets’ 2025 season marks a stark contrast to their aspirations, serving as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of sports. As they regroup, the focus will be on how they can turn this disappointment into a successful 2026 campaign. Stay tuned for further updates as the Mets navigate their off-season decisions.