· 2026-07-08

New York Mets have dismissed Carlos Mendoza and are actively scouting a replacement while the club sits 38-54, 14th in the National League, on a one‑game losing streak. The Mets’ front office is weighing Alex Cora, who may join the Phillies, and former star Carlos Beltrán as top options.
The Mets’ priority appears to be Alex Cora, despite his pending move to Philadelphia. Sources say the club would love to hire Cora, but the Phillies are expected to lock him down after they turned down a bid to replace Rob Thomson. If Cora stays in Philly, Hall of Famer Carlos Beltrán emerges as the favorite, especially once interim skipper Andy Green returns to a front‑office role this winter.
The Mets have lingered near the bottom of the NL East all season, currently 36‑53 before the latest loss, and the pressure is mounting. Their recent 12‑16 defeat to the Kansas City Royals on July 7, 2026, underscored a pitching staff that can’t string together outs. A new manager could reset the clubhouse culture before the trade deadline, giving the Mets a chance to salvage a season that began with NLCS hopes in 2024.
A fresh voice might reshape the batting order and bullpen usage. If Beltrán takes the helm, his experience as a player‑coach could translate into more aggressive baserunning and a focus on power hitting. Conversely, a Cora hire would likely bring a data‑driven approach, emphasizing match‑ups and defensive shifts that could tighten the Mets’ 5.2 ERA this year.
The front office will meet with candidates this week, with a decision expected before the end of July. Meanwhile, the Mets face the Atlanta Braves on Sunday, a game that could either extend their recent slump or spark a brief rally. The outcome may influence which managerial philosophy the club ultimately embraces.
If the Mets secure a high‑profile manager, they could attract free agents looking for a competitive environment, potentially reversing their 14th‑place standing. Should the search stall, the club risks another offseason of turnover, echoing the disappointment of missing the playoffs in 2025 after a promising start.