As the Cubs embark on a managerial search at a busy time for managerial openings, they’ve got one more theoretical competitor in the market: today the New York Mets fired manager Mickey Callaway.
Here’s the Mets’ full release on Callaway’s firing. pic.twitter.com/ErWtY8PoCs
— Mark Feinsand (@Feinsand) October 3, 2019
It was a contentious year for the former Indians pitching coach, who made it two seasons in New York. The front office went balls out to create a contender, which the Mets kinda were for a while, but they never quite got over the hump. Disappointment in New York is not well-received, and, particularly after various bits of clubhouse drama (including a scuffle at Wrigley Field), Callaway was always a good bet to get the ax.
Notably, Carlos Beltran already came in for a preemptive mention by Ken Rosenthal, and he is one of those up-and-coming types who is naturally going to be speculated about for all gigs (including the Cubs):
Name to watch if #Mets fire Callaway: Carlos Beltrán. Bi-lingual. Strong communicator. Played for #Mets from 2005 to ‘11. Interviewed for #Yankees’ job that went to Boone. One Mets exec, Allard Baird, was his GM with #Royals. Another, Omar Minaya, signed him when he was NYM GM.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) October 3, 2019
Beltrán’s time with #Mets was not always smooth. Owner Fred Wilpon told The New Yorker he was a “schmuck” for signing Beltrán based upon his big 2004 postseason. Beltrán also differed with ownership over his decision to undergo knee surgery in 2010 and other issues.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) October 3, 2019
That said, Beltran would be a fascinating candidate. Presumably more affordable than a Girardi or Maddon with Callaway under contract for one more year. Popularity and presence also would create instant, positive buzz for a franchise sensitive to public perception.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) October 3, 2019
Stay tuned on the Mets’ search, as well as that of the Padres, Giants, Angels, Royals, and Pirates.