When it comes to discussing how Carlos Beltran will fare as the Mets manager, there are few people who could have the level of insight Carlos Delgado has. In addition to being teammates on the 2006 – 2009 Mets, the two have their experiences from the Puerto Rican World Baseball Classic teams.

In 2006, they were teammates for Puerto Rico. In 2013 and 2017, Delgado would the the hitting coach of the team, and Beltran was one of his players. As a result, when Delgado speaks of his friend he is providing truly unique insight few people could provide. In an interview with Ken Davidoff of the New York Post, Delgado would provide that insight.

Ultimately, Delgado is both excited for his friend, and he believes Beltran is going to be a good manager. If you are looking for a reason why, perhaps the best reason is Beltran is “very passionate about baseball.”

As we have come to learn managing in the modern game is more about passion. In an era with teams taking an increasingly analytical approach and the creation of quality control coaches to serve as a liaison between the front office and the clubhouse to share the information, it is of vital importance a manager has an ability to process the information.

New managers must strike a balance between utilizing the information and communicating with players. Delgado and Beltran have had conversations on this topic, and Delgado came away with an impression Beltran is up to the task saying, “We have talked about how to use the new numbers versus the older, more traditional baseball (measures). I think he’s willing to work with it and embrace it and use as much information as he can, but also use the human touch and his communication skills.”

Of course, Beltran’s ability to succeed as a manager can be helped by a strong coaching staff. Given Delgado’s coaching experience and his friendship with Beltran, it would seem like he’s a natural fit. Unfortunately, Delgado will not be joining Beltran’s staff due to his family commitments. That said, he is going to do what he can to help saying, “I might stop by for a visit.”

Overall, like many Mets fans, Delgado is rooting for Beltran saying, “As a friend, I’m super excited, and as a Puerto Rican, I’m super excited for him, as well. I wish him nothing but the best.”