New York has not won a game since April 7, a stretch that has produced eight losses and just 12 runs. The offense has struggled to get on base or extend at-bats, with key contributors showing signs of decline as the team tries to break out of the rut.
Mendoza did not shy away from critiquing the lineup, noting that the Mets aren’t dictating at-bats and are getting beat by fastballs. He emphasized a need for aggression and pressure—an attack mindset the team has often failed to sustain in recent games, including against Ohtani, whom the Mets faced on Sunday.
From an offensive perspective, the slide is evident in the performances of their top hitters. Francisco Lindor has batted .238 with five strikeouts over his last five games and has drawn zero walks as a leadoff hitter. Second baseman Marcus Semien has slashed .187 in his recent five-game stretch, underscoring how the lineup has struggled to spark consistent rallies.
The Mets’ “Baby Mets” narrative remains in play with Brett Baty continuing to face questions about his role, as he has not drawn a walk in 59 at-bats. Meanwhile, Mark Vientos has shown only modest improvement, with four hits in 23 at-bats against fastballs, and the club has recently added JD Martinez in a coaching/organizational capacity as part of broader player development.
Looking ahead, New York has a 12-game run against the Cubs, Twins, Rockies, and Nationals, with nine of those contests at Citi Field. Mendoza said the upcoming stretch could determine his own standing with the club, stressing that the talent is there and that the team must start producing on the field. “Guys have got to start playing better,” he said, “it’s as simple as that.”
