Francisco Lindor Defends Carlos Mendoza as Mets’ Skid Reaches 11 Games

The New York Mets continued their difficult stretch on Sunday, falling 2-1 in extra innings to the Chicago Cubs and extending their losing streak to 11 games. The defeat further deepened a troubling start to a season that has not met expectations in Queens.

At 7-15, the Mets currently own the worst record in the National League and are tied for the lowest mark across Major League Baseball. The prolonged slump has intensified scrutiny around the team’s performance and leadership structure.

Amid growing frustration, star shortstop Francisco Lindor publicly voiced strong support for manager Carlos Mendoza, pushing back against suggestions that the coaching staff is to blame for the team’s struggles.

The Mets now return home under increased pressure, with questions mounting about accountability, execution, and the direction of a roster built to contend.

1. Lindor Offers Strong Public Support for Mendoza

Following the latest loss, Lindor firmly defended Mendoza’s leadership, emphasizing that responsibility lies primarily with the players on the field rather than the coaching staff. He described the manager as a stabilizing presence during a difficult stretch. Lindor credited Mendoza with ensuring that both players and coaches are properly prepared, noting that the organization has had access to the necessary information and structure to succeed. He also highlighted Mendoza’s communication and leadership style, calling him “our guy” and reaffirming that the clubhouse remains behind him despite the losing streak. According to Lindor, the team’s struggles are not rooted in preparation but in execution, suggesting that the Mets have failed to deliver on the field despite being put in a position to succeed.

2. Pressure Mounts After Expectations Fall Short

Mendoza’s tenure has already seen significant highs and lows, including a deep postseason run in his first year that ended in the National League Championship Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers. That early success raised expectations for sustained contention. The following offseason brought major roster changes, including the addition of high-profile talent such as Juan Soto, signaling that the Mets were attempting to accelerate their championship timeline. However, after a disappointing finish in the previous season, the club failed to carry momentum forward, missing the playoffs despite a strong payroll and high expectations. The current slump has only intensified scrutiny of those decisions. With another major offseason behind them, the Mets entered 2026 expecting to contend, making their current record even more concerning for the front office and fan base.

3. Boos Expected as Mets Search for Answers

Lindor acknowledged that frustration from fans is likely to continue, noting that he expects a hostile reception when the team returns to Citi Field for its upcoming homestand. The Mets are set to host the Minnesota Twins for a three-game series. There is growing speculation about potential organizational changes if the losing continues, including the possibility of managerial adjustments as early as the next series. While no decisions have been announced, pressure is mounting. Despite the difficult stretch, Lindor emphasized that the season is still in its early stages, with several months remaining before playoff positioning is decided. However, he acknowledged that urgency is increasing within the clubhouse. Internally, the Mets face a pivotal stretch where performance, not projections, will determine whether the season can be salvaged or continues to unravel.