Carlos Mendoza Impresses At His Introductory Press Conference
The new Mets’ Manager hit it out of the park on Tuesday from Citi Field
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On Monday, the New York Mets officially hired their new Manager via a press release. On Tuesday, from Citi Field, Carlos Mendoza was introduced to the dozens of reporters in the press room while David Stearns (POBO), welcomed him aboard to the Mets’ organization.
Mendoza, 43, is the fifth Mets’ Manager in the last six-seasons and fourth as a first-time Manager.
He signed a three-year, $4.5 million dollar contract with a team-option for a fourth year.
In the press release on Monday, Mendoza, who was the Yankees’ bench coach for the last four-seasons had this to say.
“I want Mets fans to know that I will pour every ounce of energy into this job and we share a common goal of bringing a championship to Queens,” Mendoza, new Mets manager, said in a statement. “I’m proud to represent Venezuela and the Mets and I’m grateful Steve, Alex and David gave me this wonderful opportunity.”
On Tuesday, he donned uniform number 28 with a big smile shining ear-to-ear as he replaces Buck Showalter. The Venezuelan born Mendoza, regardless of his lack of managerial experience, comes to Queens with hefty expectations as the Mets went from an 101 win team in 2022, to a 75 win team in 2023.
Mendoza is the 25th Mets Manager in their history and brings a solid resume to the table. However, during his press conference on Tuesday, we got to see him handle the New York media and speak to the Mets’ fans for the first time.
He nailed the press conference as he was presented number 28 from Stearns.
On why he wanted that number. Mendoza said he wore number 28 when he first played Dominican Winter Ball, where he won Rookie of the Year and he met his wife on the 28th of September.
"It's a big number for me, he said.”
He was sharp, he commanded the room and was very confident.
Some quotes from the Mets’ new leader.
“This is a great day. This is a special day for me, for my family, for the Mets organization.”
"It's an honor and privilege to be wearing this uniform.”
"When they started talking (Mets) about culture, people, relationships, preparation, I felt a connection right away.”
Mendoza says he was interviewing the Mets as they were interviewing him.
"I understand and I am ready for this challenge. This is a great opportunity. This is a great opportunity not only for Carlos Mendoza, but for the New York Mets.”
Mendoza says he's very excited to talk baseball with the media and specifically Gary Cohen, Keith Hernandez and Ron Darling.
“The guys are going to be prepared. We understand the expectations in New York.”
“I’m excited about out roster. This is a team that won 100 games not too long ago.”
“We expect to compete in 2024."
When a media member asked, “What does a Carlos Mendoza-led team look like, he answered.
"It comes down to preparation, attention to detail everyday, & competing. I want the team to go out there and play hard every pitch, and then at the end of the day, I want them to have fun."
Mendoza says that he was practicing baseball (drills) with his son when Stearns called to let him know he got the Manager job of the Mets.
“I've experienced playoff games here in October on the other side of town, and I can't wait to have that experience in Citi Field with the Mets' fans."
“I learned a lot the last few years from Willie Randolph…he had a big impact on my coaching career.”
The Mets do need a bench coach, and with Mendoza and Mets’ former Mets’ Manager, Randolph, who is an advisor to the Yankees, there could be something there.
Mendoza also confirmed pitching coach Jeremy Hefner will be back in the same capacity in 2024.
It was quite the first showing for the new Mets’ skipper, and he impressed everyone watching and listening. A good start to what will be a fascinating off season.
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