Heading into the offseason, it looked like the New York Mets were opening the job to a new manager. 

Current interim manager Andy Green repeatedly said he was more open to returning to his front-office role as director of player development, which fueled manager rumors and questions throughout the summer. 

Could Carlos Beltran officially become Mets manager after the cheating scandal in 2020 forced the team to fire him? Could other former players like David Ross or Albert Pujols be interested in a manager role? Would the team be able to entice an experienced candidate, such as Alex Cora or Don Mattingly? 

It seemed like the Mets were heading in a new direction, and after what they’ve shown in the second half (24-19 since the trade deadline), it’s a much brighter outlook than initially expected after the team’s fire sale. 

However, that changed today, as the Mets announced that Andy Green would be having the interim tag removed and becoming the official manager for the next three seasons. 

No Other Interviews? 

This is a shocking hiring, as it certainly appeared that the Mets and Phillies would be in a bidding war over Alex Cora in some way. 

Cora appeared to be a popular choice among Mets fans, due to his experience, winning a World Series in 2018, and posting a 620-541 (.534 winning percentage) record in 8 seasons with the Boston Red Sox. 

Cora made the playoffs in 2018, 2021, and 2025, while posting a strong 18-10 record in postseason play.

Besides Cora, there were definitely other credible managers that David Stearns could have searched for. 

Some examples are David Ross, who expressed interest in managing the team, Albert Pujols, Brad Ausmus, and Don Mattingly. 

In addition, Carlos Beltran was viewed as a dark horse candidate, as fans cited his closeness with the team and current position as a suitable option to fit the managerial role. 

Andy Green also struggled as the San Diego Padres’ manager, going 274-366 (.428 winning percentage) from 2016-19. 

Why This Is A Great Hire 

Ever since Carlos Mendoza’s firing, it has been clearly evident that the Mets have played a better brand of baseball. 

They have managed to put up a 37-38 record since June 26, and more notably, a 24-19 record since the trade deadline. 

There have been significantly fewer mental errors, mishaps, and fielding errors. 

The overall effort and chemistry in the clubhouse appear much better in games, as the players haven’t looked deflated or uninterested in the midst of this disappointing season. 

The rookies and players have also continued to rave about Green and his leadership. For example, Zac Thornton said that Green allowing him to stay in the game during the team’s Subway Series win made Thornton feel that he belongs in the majors. 

On the other hand, A.J. Ewing told Howie Rose that Green is the best motivational leader that he has ever played for in his career. 

The team’s franchise stars, such as Francisco Lindor and Juan Soto, have continuously praised Green for his leadership, friendliness, and honesty within the roster. 

All of these qualities point to Green being an excellent and player-friendly hire for the Mets, as it is a very good sign if the players are motivated to play for him. 

The Verdict 

The verdict is that Andy Green becoming the full-time Mets manager is a good hire. 

The organization’s stars and front office giving him strong support only bodes well for the future, as the club will be motivated to provide Green with as many assets as possible.

Only time will tell if David Stearns should have interviewed other managerial candidates or not, but for now, this is a job well done by the Mets’ front office and one less concern to worry about heading into an uncertain offseason.