As you most likely know by now, Terry Collins will not be returning as Mets manager in 2018. While hitting coach Kevin Long’s job seems to be secure, there has been much speculation regarding pitching coach Dan Warthen‘s standing going into next season.
After reports last week that the Mets were expecting to part ways with Warthen after this season, many of the Mets pitchers came to his defense, saying he wasn’t part of the problem.
“He’s got so much knowledge and wisdom when it comes to pitching and just life in general,” Noah Syndergaard said speaking with Steve Gelbs last week. “He’s a pitching coach, a great pitching coach, but he’s also been a great mentor. I can come to him with anything I have personal in my life, and he has the best advice to give me. I really think it would be in our best interest as a team and as a pitching staff to have him back next year.”
Following Sunday’s 11-0 loss to the Phillies and the end to a grueling season, Syndergaard was candid about how he felt regarding keeping Warthen in the organization.
“There’s no way he can be responsible for injuries,” Sydnergaard said. “I was just shocked and thought it was honestly bullshit when I saw it. I know we had an unfortunate season but he’s definitely not the one to blame for it. I think it’s pretty unfair, especially because I know how much he’s helped me not only as a pitcher but as a man as well. He’s a huge key and huge piece in our development and our success.”
Noah was not the only pitcher to come to Warthen’s defense.
“It’s an amazing job he’s been doing for this organization and for us,” Mets closer Jeurys Familia told Matt Ehalt of NorthJersey.com. “Honestly, when I made it to the big leagues, I didn’t always trust in my stuff and he would talk to me. He taught me my sinker. If I don’t have that pitch, I’m not the guy that I am right now. He’s meant everything to me.”
Upon hearing the possibility Warthen wouldn’t return next season, Seth Lugo said, “He’s great, I hope that’s not the case.”
“I love talking pitching with Dan,” Jerry Blevins chimed in. “He’s got an incredible mind for the game, he’s been around a long time, he knows a lot. I think he does a great job. I think he’s excellent. Had a lot to deal with injures and all that stuff but I think he’s an incredible pitching coach.”
While there has been speculation that this discussion would all be for naught as he might retire, Warthen spoke candidly with Matt Ehalt in an effort to make sure we all knew what he thought.
“I know I’m not going to retire,” Warthen said. “I know I do a good job, there are not too many people better than me.”
