Good Morning, Mets fans!
Thursday was a rather sad and disappointing day for the game of baseball, as well as for our New York Mets. Let’s get right to it:
Latest Mets News
On Thursday afternoon, the Mets and manager Carlos Beltran mutually agreed to part ways. This decision follows the appearance of Beltran’s name in Rob Manfred’s report detailing the Houston Astros’ video cheating scandal, as well as the firings of Astros’ manager AJ Hinch and general manager Jeff Luhnow.
Mets GM Brodie Van Wagenen held a conference call with the media following the above announcement, covering questions pertaining to Beltran’s contract, Mets’ special advisor Jessica Mendoza’s comments on Mike Fiers, and when exactly the team’s front office changed their mind on Beltran.
According to Metsmerized’s own Michael Mayer, sources say that ESPN analyst Eduardo Perez– a previous candidate for Mets manager- is not included in the Mets’ current options to replace Beltran.
On the other hand, Luis Rojas– the Mets’ quality control coach- is indeed a candidate to fill the managerial position. Rojas was interviewed by the Mets several times during their initial search following the firing of Mickey Callaway.
On a much brighter note, the Mets honored former catcher Mike Piazza on Thursday in the re-naming of their St. Lucie address to 31 Piazza Drive.
Another bright spot for you: MLB Pipeline rated the Mets’ Francisco Alvarez as Major League baseball’s fifth-best catching prospect.
Latest MLB News
The San Francisco Giants announced that they have hired Alyssa Nakken as an assistant coach for their major league team. According to Keith Law, Nakken is the first woman to coach on an MLB staff.
Joel Sherman of the New York Post relays a statement from Major League baseball following new questions regarding Jose Altuve‘s ALCS-ending home run.
Jake Mintz, in the latest for Baseball Prospectus, reports on the difficulties associated with developing young players in the Dominican Winter leagues.
Bernie Miklasz of The Athletic writes about the inherent optimism of springtime baseball, as well as how this optimism could benefit him after his time away from the game.
Latest NL East News
Meghan Montemurro of The Athletic details the potential of several Phillies’ prospects who could find themselves in a major league bullpen come 2020.
Latest on MMO
Before the news of Beltran’s departure broke, Jack Hendon laid out the pros and cons of a Mets’ decision.
Michelle Ioannou reminded us that Thursday was about Mike Piazza.
This Day in Mets History
Birthdays: Dario Alvarez turns 31
2011: Free agent Willie Harris signs with the Mets. Harris was known for his defensive prowess- particularly when it came to catching balls hit by a Met- but did not find as much success with New York.
