The New York Mets have fired manager Carlos Mendoza after two and a half seasons, citing the team's 34-47 record and position at the bottom of the NL East. Mendoza's departure comes despite the team's roster exceeding $320 million in payroll.
Andy Green has been appointed as the interim manager. The 48-year-old previously held the role of senior vice president of baseball development for the Mets' minor league system and was a candidate for the managerial position in 2023 before Mendoza was hired. Green, a former player for the Mets, is expected to be considered for the permanent role.
Green's prior MLB managerial experience includes a tenure with the San Diego Padres from 2016 to 2019, where he compiled a record of 274-366 without any playoff appearances.
Several other candidates are emerging in discussions for the managerial opening. Carlos Beltrán, a National Baseball Hall of Fame member and former Met, is a name to watch. Although he lacks managerial experience, Beltrán was hired by the Mets in 2019 but parted ways before managing a game amid the Houston Astros sign-stealing scandal.
Alex Cora, who was recently fired as manager of the Boston Red Sox in April after a 10-17 start to the season, is also a name of interest. Cora, a former Met, has been identified as a central figure in the Astros' sign-stealing scheme.
AJ Hinch, who previously worked with Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns during their time with the Astros, could also become a candidate if the Detroit Tigers continue to struggle. Hinch has a career record of 428-463 over six seasons as the Tigers' manager. If Hinch is not considered, Tigers bench coach George Lombard is another possibility. Lombard has advanced in coaching ranks since 2010 and made three World Series appearances as the Dodgers' first-base coach.
Joe Espada, who has a relationship with Stearns from their time with the Houston Astros, is also a name connected to the search. Espada currently serves as bench coach for the Astros. Additionally, former Brewers bench coach Mark DeRosa is seen as a potential candidate. DeRosa has experience as a coach in the World Baseball Classic.
Rob Thomson, formerly of the Philadelphia Phillies, is another recently fired manager who could be considered. He was dismissed in April after the Phillies started 9-19, despite his .568 winning percentage, which made him the team's most successful manager since 1900.
The Mets could also consider Syracuse Mets manager Dick Scott, who has held multiple roles within the organization, including field coordinator of instruction, bench coach, and director of player development.