Mets predicted fire Carlos Mendoza for rival World Series champion, hottest managerial name originally appeared on The Sporting News.
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The New York Mets had a rough ending to the 2025 season, going from the best team in all of baseball to one of the worst. It was a painful finish—one that won’t be forgotten anytime soon by Mets fans.

“The New York Mets, losers of six straight, are down 6-0 and facing Jacob deGrom. Since starting 45-24 and owning the best record in MLB, the Mets are 31-47, better than only the Rockies, Twins and Nationals. This isn’t a collapse. It’s a disintegration,” ESPN’s Jeff Passan posted.

The Mets had a quiet start to the offseason, watching Pete Alonso and Edwin Díaz sign with other teams. Finally, the organization broke through by trading for Milwaukee Brewers ace Freddy Peralta.

“The New York Mets’ winterlong pursuit of a front-line starting pitcher ended late Wednesday when they acquired All-Star Freddy Peralta, as well as fellow right-hander Tobias Myers, from the Milwaukee Brewers for Brandon Sproat and Jett Williams, two of their top prospects,” ESPN’s Jorge Castillo wrote.

Still, the Mets may not have a strong season in 2026 if Carlos Mendoza struggles. In that case, Francisco Cervelli could be the replacement.

“The fact that Carlos Mendoza survived last year’s brutal collapse is nothing short of incredible, though the clock is already counting down to his possible firing. Cervelli is obviously familiar with New York, and Steve Cohen pouncing on a manager who impressed at the World Baseball Classic makes far too much sense. (Initially, I typed “impressed at the World Series,” and I’m sure Cohen would have loved that typo.) With that said, we’ll see how much power Juan Soto would have in picking the next manager if the Mets let Mendoza go. I’d like to think that New York didn’t give Soto a 15-year, $765 million deal just to ignore whatever he tells them,” FanSided’s Jake Elman wrote.

This is undoubtedly a make-or-break year for the Mets, and if they can’t win, it could be the end for Mendoza. The roster looks strong on the offensive front.

Cervelli led Team Italy to a semi-final appearance in the World Baseball Classic, drawing significant attention and putting him on the map as a potential next hire for MLB organizations.

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