Following a 2024 season where the New York Mets fell short of their goals despite having a roster and record-breaking payroll in MLB history. The Mets’ high-priced lineup failed to live up to expectations leading to fan and owner dissatisfaction due to injuries and inconsistent play throughout the season. Ultimately, resulting in losses during moments prompting a shift in leadership and a renewed outlook for what lies ahead. Enter Carlos Mendoza, the new manager tasked with lifting the Mets out of their slump.

Mendoza, who previously served as the Yankees bench coach, now faces the enormous responsibility of guiding a roster that underperformed on paper. With high expectations weighing heavily on the Mets, Carlos Mendoza’s challenge is clear: turn talent into tangible results. The 2025 season will be a critical test for Mendoza’s leadership and his ability to restore the Mets to playoff contention after a season marked by disappointment.

From bench coach to manager: Carlos Mendoza’s new perspective

In a recent video on SNL’s YouTube channel, Carlos Mendoza discussed how he embraces the responsibilities that come with being a manager. “It didn’t take me too long to realize how special this place is,” Mendoza said during a recent interview. “It’s a privilege to be able to wear this uniform and represent, you know, the Cohen’s and a fan base.” For a franchise with a history of high expectations and heartbreak, Mendoza’s acknowledgment of the stakes resonates deeply.

While the 2024 campaign wasn’t short on talent, the Mets boasted a star-studded lineup but struggled when it counted the most. Their pitching struggled with inconsistency, and an underwhelming offensive core failed to deliver in crucial moments. As the postseason progressed without them, owner Steve Cohen and general manager David Stearns made sweeping changes, including hiring Mendoza, to chart a new course.

Additionally, transitioning from bench coach to manager brings challenges, but Mendoza appears confident. “As a bench coach, you’re in charge of a lot of different things, but you’re not making the last decision,” he described. “You’re not making the last call, you know, and then you’re not facing or explaining why you made that last call.” He acknowledges that this change brings additional responsibility on his shoulders. His focus as a leader will revolve around accountability and readiness qualities that the Mets require to compete in a tough NL East division.

During the offseason break, Carlos Mendoza went beyond focusing on the field by investing time in the Dominican Republic and Guadalajara to build connections with players and enhance the Mets’ global footprint. This hands-on strategy highlights his goal of fostering a culture of success while engaging with talent throughout the organization.

 2024: A year without a guiding hand for the Mets

The 2024 season, for the Mets, wasn’t about underperformance in games but a lack of strong leadership both on and off the field. Despite starting the season with the highest payroll ever in MLB history at over $350 million, they still couldn’t make it to the playoffs. Big names such as Francisco Lindor and Pete Alonso couldn’t consistently lead the team together and injuries hitting players, like Kodai Senga and Edwin Díaz only made things worse. During times without a leader to steer them forward, the Mets found it hard to stay on track and work effectively during high-leverage situations.

These leadership issues became obvious during the second half when the team dipped below .500 and fell out of contention despite being loaded with talent. The lack of proactive adjustments from the coaching staff, combined with the clubhouse’s lack of accountability, highlighted the need for change. That’s why Carlos Mendoza’s appointment as manager is a critical turning point. Known for his approach to detail and ability to connect with players, Mendoza brings a fresh outlook to a team desperate for structure and direction. His challenge will be to unite a roster brimming with potential while fostering the type of leadership that was noticeably absent in 2024.

In essence, with a strong vision and focus on leadership, Carlos Mendoza is tasked with unlocking the team’s potential and restoring their competitive edge. The upcoming season is crucial, for both Mendoza and the Mets as they strive to overcome the disappointment of the year.