Phillies add ex-Mets manager Carlos Mendoza to Don Mattingly’s coaching staff

The Philadelphia Phillies announced that former New York Mets manager Carlos Mendoza will join Don Mattingly’s coaching staff for the 2027 season. Mendoza, who managed the Mets for two‑and‑a‑half seasons, will serve as the third‑base and infield coach. The move follows the club’s decision to keep Mattingly as its full‑time manager, a position he secured after replacing Rob Thomson earlier in the year.

Mendoza’s tenure in New York ended in June 2026 after a 34‑47 start and a 12‑game losing streak in April. He finished with a 206‑199 record, highlighted by a 2024 run to the National League Championship Series before falling to the Los Angeles Dodgers in six games. His dismissal came after a collapse in the 2025 campaign and a poor start in 2026. In his absence, Andy Green was named interim manager and later signed to a three‑year contract after guiding the team to a 40‑41 record.

Prior to his Mets job, Mendoza spent six seasons on the Yankees’ coaching staff under Aaron Boone. His arrival in Philadelphia brings him back to the National League East, where the Mets face the Phillies 13 times each season.

The Phillies’ hiring comes amid defensive concerns that surfaced during the 2026 season, particularly at shortstop. Trea Turner, who finished the year with a negative defensive metric, will likely start the 2027 campaign at that position, though his performance will determine his longevity there. Anthony Contreras, who filled the third‑base coaching role during 2026, is expected to remain with the organization in a different capacity.

Dave Dombrowski, president of baseball operations, announced the appointment on Thursday, emphasizing the team’s focus on strengthening infield coaching and defensive play as it prepares for the next season.

Source: Phillies add ex-Mets manager Carlos Mendoza to Don Mattingly’s coaching staff