The New York Mets have officially fired manager Carlos Mendoza, a decision that comes as the team, with a staggering $380 million payroll, sits 12 games under .500 and third-worst in the National League. This move follows a five-game losing streak, including a disheartening sweep in a doubleheader against the Chicago Cubs where the team committed six errors in one game. The "unacceptable" play has led to widespread frustration, with many Mets fans feeling the team has given up.
Mendoza's firing has been anticipated by some, especially after the team's slow start this season, mirroring the Philadelphia Phillies' decision to fire their manager, Rob Thomson, earlier in the season. The Phillies subsequently saw a significant improvement, becoming a Wild Card contender. Despite Mendoza taking responsibility for the team's performance, some argue he was handed a flawed roster, shifting blame towards President of Baseball Operations David Stearns for his failure to build a contending team despite the massive payroll.
Stearns previously gave Mendoza a vote of confidence, stating there were no plans to make a change. However, the continuous poor performance, including a 10-21 start to the season and the second-fewest runs scored in baseball (3.42 runs per game), ultimately led to Mendoza's dismissal. This decision highlights the pressure on Stearns and owner Steve Cohen to turn the team around, with speculation that Stearns might be given another year to fix the Mets, potentially by hiring a General Manager beneath him.
