Mets manager explores optimal top 3 lineup combinations with Francisco Lindor, Juan Soto, Mark Vientos, Brandon Nimmo

New York Mets manager Carlos Mendoza has a tall task ahead of him. Team owner Steve Cohen spent close to $1 billion in contract signings just this offseason alone in hopes of winning a World Series title and establishing themselves as the top dogs of the National League.

In an interview on WFAN during the Amazin' Day festivities of the Queens-based outfit on Sunday, hosts Joe Benigno and Sal Licata asked Mendoza how the batting lineup of the Mets is shaping up ahead of the new season.

"I'm not going to lie, I've been thinking a lot. The good thing is I have a lot of options. I can go with Francisco Lindor, Juan Soto, Mark Vientos or Brandon Nimmo in alternating order," Mendoza said. (5:00 onwards)

"There's a lot of different ways that we can go. I'm still waiting for Spring Training to where we're at. We know the success that Lindor delivered at the leadoff spot last season. The good thing is that they're willing to do whatever it takes and that's what makes them great players and great teammates."

Mendoza stated that he has yet to discuss his plans with the aforementioned players but put his faith in their competitive spirit. The New York Mets manager, who coincidentally was a former New York Yankees coach, will certainly be spoiled for choice in the re-tooled offense that will now feature perennial MVP candidate Juan Soto.

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Media personality supports Mets manager's time with the Yankees

Contrary to established logic, New York sports media personality Joe Benigno said in the same interview that he was ecstatic about Carlos Mendoza's time with the cross-city rival New York Yankees.

"I like the fact that [Carlos Mendoza] was with the Yankees all those years because of the winning organization that they are. I think that has to be a plus that you've seen what it's like to win in New York," Benigno said (3:49 onwards).

Mendoza spent six years as a coach for the Yankees before becoming the Mets manager in 2024. He also supported Benigno's statement and said that it was definitely a positive experience to be a part of a contending organization every year and that it helped him become the manager he is today.