Andy Green did such a phenomenal job with one of the most disappointing Mets teams in franchise history, that David Stearns and Steve Cohen dropped the “interim” from his title, signing the 49-year-old to a three-year contract extension as their manager on Tuesday.
“Simply put, I think Andy is the perfect person for this job,” Stearns said. “His experience both throughout his career in the game, his experience in our organization over the last three years, our relationship that we’ve developed, and his ability to lead our clubhouse makes him the right choice.”
Following the dismissal of Carlos Mendoza in late June amid a 34-47 start, Green came down from the front office, where he served as vice president of player development, and immediately elevated an underachieving club despite a second consecutive postseason-less campaign. The Mets have gone 37-38 in 75 games under Green entering Tuesday night’s series opener in Texas against the Rangers, but have played their best baseball since the trade deadline, going 24-19 over their last 45 games.
His ability to connect with his players was undeniable, as was the ease with which he has handled the position of managing a scuffling franchise in the largest sports market in the world. Yet, this was all supposed to be temporary. Green was adamant that he would be returning to the front office after the season and that Stearns would lead the search for a new manager.
Part of it had to do with his family. When his daughters were 13, he made a promise to them that he would not return to the dugout as manager. They are seniors in high school.
It appears as though his three months on the job — and perhaps the persuasion of Stearns, Cohen, and even his kids — were enough to change his mind. Earlier this month, he alerted Stearns that he would like to be in the running for the managerial job.
Stearns said that the Mets did their “due diligence” on external candidates, but none were interviewed.
“When I came down here three months ago, I didn’t anticipate this game at all,” Green said. “Wasn’t anything that I think could happen, but that does not take away from my level of excitement and passion for what I felt over the last three months with these guys. I’m incredibly grateful and thankful to David for the opportunity, and it’s right for me also to acknowledge Steve and Alex [Cohen]. They lead this organization not just financially, but with love…
“Above anything else, it’s right to acknowledge the players in that clubhouse because they’ve rekindled a love in me that I had for being in the dugout. I’ve enjoyed believing in them, encouraging them, and challenging them.”
As much as Green has won over practically everyone surrounding the organization, expectations are going to be much different beginning next season. The expectations to contend for the postseason, at the very least, will be back on.
I think it’s a good thing for the organization. It put a smile to my face. I felt like he’s done a good job. You don’t want to go into the offseason thinking what’s going to happen and who’s going to come in and more changes. This is a familiar face who’s been around… This is a wise decision, a good decision, and I’m looking forward to the next couple years.”
For more on Andy Green and the Mets, visit AMNY.com
