Andy Martino of SNY reports that the Nationals first base coach Tim Bogar has emerged as a serious contender to become the Mets next manager.
Bogar, Mets eight round pick in the 1987 draft out of Eastern Illinois University, had his second interview with the Mets on Thursday.
The 52-year-old has managed five seasons in the minor leagues (three-time manager of the year), served as the Rangers interim manager in 2014 (went 14-8), and this season is his 10th as a big league coach. He played in parts of nine major league seasons, four with the Mets.
Bogar is joined by Carlos Beltran, Luis Rojas, Derek Shelton, and Eduardo Perez as candidates for Mets manager that will get a second interview. Bogar and Shelton (two games filling in for Paul Molitor) are the only ones with MLB managerial experience.
Shelton has also interviewed for the Pirates open managerial position.
Two teams selected their new manager on Thursday when the Phillies plucked the experienced Joe Girardi and the Padres hired Jayce Tingler. The Cubs have already chosen David Ross as their new manager and Joe Maddon is returning to the Angels.
Anthony DiComo of MLB.com notes that the Mets are being deliberate in their search to replace Mickey Callaway because they aim to find someone that will help contend next season and also remain with the team long-term. DiComo also reports that assistant GMs Allard Baird and Adam Guttridge, special advisor Omar Minaya, COO Jeff Wilpon, and other high-level executives have helped GM Brodie Van Wagenen in the search.
