Carlos Mendoza is thrilled to be the Mets’ new manager.
“Man, this feels good,” Mendoza said after putting on his new uniform for the first time Tuesday. “It feels great. This is a great day. It’s a special day for me, my family and the Mets organization.
“For me, it’s an honor and a privilege to be wearing this uniform.”
The Mets officially welcomed Mendoza as their next manager with a press conference Tuesday at Citi Field.
Mendoza, the former Yankees bench coach, received a three-year contract with a team option for the 2027 season.
He will earn roughly $1.5 million per season, per SNY.
The Mets flirted with ex-Brewers manager Craig Counsell, who ultimately landed with the Cubs on a record five-year, $40 million contract, before agreeing to terms with Aaron Boone’s Yankees No. 2.
Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns praised Mendoza for his upbeat personality, care for others and baseball knowledge, among other traits.
“Throughout this process, we prioritized finding a manager who could not only impact and lead our team in the dugout but who could help us shape an environment throughout our organization as well,” Stearns said. “I firmly believe Carlos has the ability to do that.”
Mendoza praised his wife, parents and family for helping him get to this point, along with the Giants for signing him as a minor leaguer and the Yankees for helping him as a coach.
He also specifically singled out Yankees executive Mark Newman.
Mendoza said he felt a connection with the organization while talking with Stearns and others about culture and other topics during the interview process.
The 43-year-old said he is in the process of putting together his coach staff, although Jeremy Hefner is returning as pitching coach.
“I understand people are saying this is a big challenge, especially for a guy that’s never managed at the big-league level,” Mendoza said. “I understand the city of New York. I’ve been here for the past six years and I know how passionate the fan base is and the expectations they got here.
“Just know that I understand and I am ready for this challenge. I see this is as a great opportunity.”
Source
