Mendoza’s Moves & Leadership Tonight
1. Quick hook for a struggling starter
Mendoza didn’t hesitate when David Peterson faltered early. With the Mets down 5–1 by the second inning (Peterson lasted just 1.2 innings), Mendoza turned to Huascar Brazobán immediately to try to stem the bleeding. That move was critical — it prevented the game from spiraling into something even more lopsided. (Sources covering the game mention Peterson’s rough start and early bullpen usage.) SNY
2. Bullpen management under pressure
From Brazobán onward, Mendoza leaned heavily on his bullpen mix: Brazobán, Stanek, Gregory Soto, Tyler Rogers, Brooks Raley, and ultimately, Edwin Díaz. The relievers collectively gave the Mets a fighting chance, allowing only minimal damage after the rough start.
- He used multiple pitchers across innings, matching usage to matchup needs and keeping arms fresh.
- Importantly, the decision to bring in Díaz for more than a typical “one-inning closer job” (he entered in the 8th) showed Mendoza’s aggressive confidence in his closer, especially in a high-leverage, tight game. (Reports note that Díaz struck out the side in the ninth to seal the win.) Reuters+1
3. Trusting the offense, giving room to rally
Mendoza didn’t overmanage the offense or yank guys unnecessarily. He let matchups play out, allowed guys like Lindor, Nimmo, Alvarez, and Alonso to capitalize, and avoided unnecessary pinch decisions in key spots until late. That trust was rewarded in the fifth and eighth innings when the hitters answered the call in dramatic fashion. SNY
What Went Well — Mendoza’s Credit
- Situational awareness: He recognized Peterson’s night was over and pivoted early, which kept the Cubs from growing more comfortable.
- Matchup flexibility: By deploying relievers strategically and not being afraid to use multiple arms, he kept Chicago from unleashing extra damage.
- Confidence in his players: Letting Alvarez swing away in the 8th, calling on Díaz for a two-inning save — those are statements of belief, and they paid off.
- Maintaining composure: It’s easy in a comeback game to over-manage or make reactive moves. Mendoza stayed steady, trusting his roster to execute.
Where He Was Tested / What He Could Improve
- Starter crash plan: While he got out of the Peterson start early, the Mets still allowed damage. The bullpen was tasked with covering many innings — a tall order.
- Relief sequencing stress: In a volatile game, the bullpen chain is under constant stress. Any one ineffective reliever or mis-timed usage could have derailed the comeback.
- Timing of pulls: Always a judgment call — when to pull or not. There’s risk in keeping arms fresh but also risk in yanking too early. In close games, those margins are razor thin.
Final Take: Mendoza’s Night
Overall, Carlos Mendoza did well tonight. Yes, the game started poorly under Peterson, but his moves stabilized the team, gave the bullpen a shot, and allowed the offense room to mount a rally. His willingness to trust his closer and key hitters in pressure-packed moments showed the maturity of a manager who believes in his team.
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