Mets Players Defend Manager Mendoza Amid Brutal Slump

Devin Williams and Francisco Lindor say the team's struggles are on the players, not the coaching staff

Apr. 20, 2026 at 11:33am

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The New York Mets are in the midst of an 11-game losing streak, leading to increased scrutiny of manager Carlos Mendoza. However, star players Devin Williams and Francisco Lindor have come out in support of Mendoza, saying the team's poor performance is on the players, not the coaching staff.

Why it matters

The Mets' early season struggles have put Mendoza's job security in jeopardy, but his players are publicly backing him, suggesting the team's issues run deeper than just the manager. This could impact Mendoza's future with the team and the overall direction of the organization.

The details

After the Mets were swept by the Cubs, Williams and Lindor both defended Mendoza, saying he is putting the team in good positions but the players are not executing. Williams said 'It's absolutely on us. He doesn't swing a bat and he doesn't throw a baseball... We're not performing.' Lindor echoed those sentiments, stating 'He's done a fantastic job. This is not on him... Mendy is our guy. He's our leader. He's in control and he's done a tremendous job.'

  • The Mets are currently on an 11-game losing streak.

The players

Devin Williams

A new addition to the Mets roster this offseason who recorded his first blown save with the team on Sunday.

Francisco Lindor

The Mets' star shortstop who is struggling offensively and defensively after undergoing left hamate bone surgery in February.

Carlos Mendoza

The Mets' manager who is facing increasing pressure and scrutiny amid the team's poor start to the season.

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What they’re saying

“It's absolutely on us. He doesn't swing a bat and he doesn't throw a baseball... We're not performing.”

— Devin Williams, Mets Player

“He's done a fantastic job. This is not on him... Mendy is our guy. He's our leader. He's in control and he's done a tremendous job.”

— Francisco Lindor, Mets Shortstop

What’s next

The Mets will look to end their 11-game losing streak when they return home to face the Los Angeles Dodgers on Tuesday.

The takeaway

The Mets' star players are publicly defending their embattled manager, suggesting the team's struggles are more about the players' inability to perform than Mendoza's coaching. This could help buy Mendoza more time, but the Mets will need to turn things around quickly to avoid a complete collapse.