On Monday night, the New York Mets suffered a 7-6 loss to the Cleveland Guardians in extra innings, fueling widespread anger among fans mainly directed at Mets manager Carlos Mendoza. The frustration centered on a pivotal moment in the bottom of the ninth inning when Mike Sarbaugh, the third base coach, elected to hold Tyrone Taylor at third base instead of sending him home with the go-ahead run.
With the game tied 6-6, Francisco Lindor singled to center field, and Taylor aggressively advanced toward third base. However, Sarbaugh displayed the stop sign, preventing Taylor from attempting to score. Pete Alonso stepped up to bat with the bases loaded but ultimately struck out, missing a key opportunity to win the game for the Mets.
Mendoza Stands Firm, Justifies Holding Runner at Third Base
Despite the backlash, Carlos Mendoza defended Sarbaugh’s call following the defeat. He explained that the decision was based on the ball’s position, stating that the ball had already reached the cut-off man when the stop signal was given.
Carlos Mendoza says it was the right decision by third-base coach Mike Sarbaugh to put the stop sign up with Pete Alonso coming up to the plate.
—Carlos Mendoza, Mets Manager
The game’s outcome was sealed in the 10th inning when Cleveland took advantage of a defensive error by Mets third baseman Brett Baty, ultimately securing the win. Mendoza’s defense of Sarbaugh’s call, despite the loss, further intensified fan frustration.
Strong Backlash from Mets Fans on Social Media
Following the game, social media channels, particularly X, were flooded with angry reactions from Mets supporters, criticizing Mendoza and questioning the judgment behind the costly decision. Fans voiced their frustration over what they perceived as a lack of accountability and poor decision-making during critical moments.
NO ACCOUNTABILITY WHATSOEVER. I WONDER WHAT TEAM HE CAME FROM,
—Anonymous Mets Fan
If you ask 100 Mets fans, 100 will say Mendoza is wrong,
—Anonymous Mets Fan
0 accountability smh I really love Mendoza but come on just unacceptable,
—Anonymous Mets Fan
No, it wasn’t. 3rd base coach needs to read the room, we have not been clutch. Send the fucking runner,
—Anonymous Mets Fan
No. He has to score there,
—Anonymous Mets Fan
Some fans were more direct in their emotional reactions, calling Mendoza an “idiot” and accusing him of failing to make necessary decisions under pressure, reflecting the increasing tension in the fanbase as the Mets’ recent struggles continue.
Implications for the Mets as Playoff Race Tightens
This loss drops the Mets to a 63-50 record, placing them a game and a half behind the Philadelphia Phillies in the NL East division standings. The team’s recent form has been shaky, going 5-7 in their last 12 games, and close losses like Monday’s are fueling unease among supporters about the team’s ability to perform in critical situations.
The series with Cleveland continues with Game 2 scheduled for Tuesday, where the Mets will look to bounce back despite mounting pressure. How Mendoza and his coaching staff adjust to these pivotal game moments could significantly influence the team’s path in the competitive NL East.