Mets stand up for Mendoza amid skid: 'We're not performing'
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In the aftermath of the Mets losing their 11th straight game on Sunday, the players have defended their manager, Carlos Mendoza.
After losing in extra innings to the Cubs, players took full responsibility for their 11-game winless streak, matching the club’s longest skid since Aug. 28-Sept. 8, 2004.
“It’s absolutely on us,” Devin Williams said. “[Mendoza] doesn’t swing the bat and he doesn’t throw a baseball. We’ve been in a lot of these games. It’s been close. Him or somebody else is not affecting that. If we’re not getting the job done, somebody else isn’t just magically gonna flip a switch and we’re gonna get it done.
"He’s putting guys in good positions. We’re not performing.”
Francisco Lindor added: “He’s done a fantastic job. This is not on him. He has made sure everyone here is prepared. Every coach here is prepared. We have the information; it comes down on us. Mendy’s our guy. He’s our leader. He’s in control and he’s done a tremendous job.”
Mets left-hander David Peterson, who tossed 3 2/3 scoreless innings in relief on Sunday, believes a turnaround would take a collective effort that requires everyone to perform better.
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"It’s on everyone. We’re in this together. Everyone has a part in this, and we've got to stick together,” Peterson said. “Everyone’s got to take responsibility and accountability. We all need to look in the mirror and see what we can do better to help this team move in the right direction. That’s the job. Come back Tuesday, fight like hell and play our brand of baseball."
The Mets’ 11-game losing streak dropped the club to a 7-15 record, tied with the Royals for the worst record in the Majors. It’s also tied for the third-worst start in franchise history.
Mendoza, in his third year at the Mets’ helm, understands where the team currently sits, but is trying to focus on what he can control.
“I know questions like this are going to come up, right? I’m spending my energy in continuing to manage, continue to lead, continue to coach, continue to support,” Mendoza said. “That’s what I’m doing right now. Spending my energy on things that I can control.”
MLB.com's Jackson Stone contributed reporting to this story.