The New York Mets are preparing to rekindle a successful partnership by meeting with former hitting coach Kevin Long on Tuesday, according to Mike Puma of the New York Post. The 59-year-old candidate is in the running to fill a critical vacancy on the coaching staff, signaling a strategic move by the franchise to restore proven leadership to the dugout. This interview marks a pivotal moment in the Mets’ search for a new hitting coach, with insiders suggesting a reunion is a strong possibility given Long’s established rapport with the organization.
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Long’s track record with the Mets is undeniably impressive, having served as the hitting coach from 2015 to 2017. During his tenure, he played a instrumental role in guiding the team to a National League pennant, cementing his status as a key contributor to the club’s recent competitive success. Although Long departed the organization after being passed over for the managerial position prior to the 2018 season, his experience and familiarity with the Mets’ culture make him an attractive option for the front office as they look to stabilize their player development and on-field performance.
The urgency behind this hiring push stems from recent roster changes announced on Oct. 6, which confirmed that director of major league hitting Jeff Albert, quality assurance coach Danny Barnes, and batting practice pitcher Kevin Mahoney will not return for the 2027 season. These departures have left three significant vacancies on the coaching staff, forcing the Mets to act quickly to secure talent capable of maintaining the team’s high standards. With the interview scheduled for Tuesday, the decision on Long could set the tone for the Mets’ approach to hitting instruction in the upcoming season.
Source: Yahoo Sports
