Who Will the 2026 Mets Hire to Be Their Next Manager?
The Mets have endured a horrendous 2026 season, prompting the organization to make an in-season managerial change by firing Carlos Mendoza on June 26th. The club promoted Senior Vice President for Player Development Andy Green to serve as interim manager for the remainder of the season. Mets President of Baseball Operations David Stearns emphasized that Green's role is strictly temporary. After the season, Green will return to overseeing player development in the front office while the organization conducts a full search for the 24th manager in franchise history. Stearns said appointing Green, who previously managed the San Diego Padres, gives the club a trusted front-office voice to lead the team as it continues to develop its young players during a difficult season.
Carlos Beltrán
Beltrán was originally hired as the Mets' manager on Nov. 1st, 2019, to replace Mickey Callaway. However, he stepped down on Jan. 16th, 2020, before managing a regular-season game after his role in the Houston Astros' sign-stealing scandal came to light. Beltrán currently serves in the Mets' front office as a special assistant to David Stearns. In that role, he has become an important bridge between the front office and the clubhouse, mentoring young prospects while remaining heavily involved in the organization's daily baseball operations and team strategy. His familiarity with the organization and strong relationships throughout the clubhouse make him a logical candidate to receive another opportunity.
Alex Cora
Cora brings a proven World Series-winning résumé, firsthand familiarity with the intense New York mediamarket from his playing days, and a reputation as one of baseball's most respected player-focused managers. He has more than 600 career managerial victories and guided the Boston Red Sox to the 2018 World Series championship. Like Mendoza, Cora was dismissed during the season after the Red Sox struggled through a disappointing campaign. Many around baseball viewed Boston's roster construction, rather than Cora's leadership, as a major reason for the club's poor performance. The veteran manager also played for the Mets from 2009 to 2010, giving him firsthand knowledge of the pressures and expectations that come with managing in New York. However, hiring the clubhouse leader may not be easy. Reports and rumors have linked him to the division-rival Philadelphia Phillies because of his close relationship with Phillies President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski, making Philadelphia a potential favorite for his next managerial opportunity.
Albert Pujols
Pujols quickly emerged as one of baseball's most intriguing managerial candidates following his transition into coaching. His Hall of Fame playing career commands instant respect in any clubhouse, while his leadership, communication skills, and ability to connect with both veteran players and young prospects have been widely praised. Although he has yet to manage in the major leagues, Pujols' extensive baseball knowledge, championship pedigree, and respected presence throughout the sport make him an appealing option if the Mets decide to pursue a first-time major league manager.
David Ross
Ross brings previous major league managerial experience after leading the Chicago Cubs from 2020 through 2023. During his tenure, he guided the Cubs to a post-season appearance and earned a reputation as a strong clubhouse leader who emphasizes accountability, preparation, and communication. Having managed one of baseball's historic franchises, the former MLB backstop understands the pressure that comes with leading a high-profile team. His experience and leadership style could make him a strong fit for the demands of managing in New York.
Rocco Baldelli
Baldelli offers a blend of modern baseball strategy and proven managerial success. The 2019 American League Manager of the Year led the Minnesota Twins to multiple postseason appearances while earning praise for balancing analytics with player development and maintaining a positive clubhouse culture. His ability to maximize roster talent and effectively manage both veterans and young players would make him an attractive candidate for a Mets organization looking to quickly return to playoff contention. His calm, steady leadership style could also provide the stability needed to guide a high-expectation clubhouse through the demands of a long season and the pressures of competing in New York.
