What's Happening?
The New York Mets are undergoing significant changes to their coaching staff after a disappointing end to the 2025 season. Despite retaining manager Carlos Mendoza, the team announced the departure of several key coaches. Pitching coach Jeremy Hefner, hitting coaches Jeremy Barnes and Eric Chavez, and third base coach Mike Sarbaugh will not return. Additionally, bench coach John Gibbons has resigned, and catching coach Glenn Sherlock has retired. Assistant pitching coach Desi Druschel and bullpen coach José Rosado have been given permission to speak with other teams as the Mets search for a new pitching coach. The team will retain first base coach Antoan Richardson, strategy coach Danny Barnes, and coaching assistant Rafael Fernandez.
Why It's Important?
The overhaul of the Mets' coaching staff is a direct response to their failure to make the playoffs, despite a strong start to the season. The team finished with an 83-79 record, missing the playoffs after a midseason collapse. This shakeup reflects the organization's commitment to improving performance and addressing weaknesses, particularly in pitching, as evidenced by their 18th place finish in team ERA. The changes could impact the team's strategy and performance in the upcoming season, as new coaching dynamics are expected to bring fresh perspectives and potentially improve the team's competitiveness in the National League.
What's Next?
The Mets are actively searching for a new pitching coach, which will be a critical decision for the team's future. The departure of several coaches opens opportunities for new hires who can bring different strategies and expertise to the team. The organization will likely focus on strengthening their pitching staff and overall team performance to avoid another season collapse. The retention of manager Carlos Mendoza indicates confidence in his leadership, but the pressure will be on him to deliver better results with a revamped coaching team.
Beyond the Headlines
The coaching changes highlight the challenges faced by professional sports teams in maintaining consistent performance. The Mets' decision to overhaul their staff underscores the importance of adaptability and responsiveness in sports management. This move may also influence other teams facing similar struggles, as they observe the Mets' approach to addressing performance issues. The cultural and strategic shifts within the team could lead to long-term improvements, setting a precedent for how teams handle midseason collapses.
