The New York Mets have decided to part ways with their manager Luis Rojas after yet another disappointing season. He managed the team for two seasons and was a longtime fixture in the organization’s minor league system, managing both the Gulf Coast League and St. Lucie Mets, in the years prior. The Mets went 103–119 under Rojas, not living up to the potential many see in the club. The talented but constantly underachieving Mets are now looking for their fifth manager in the last six seasons. 

The team has also recently come under new ownership, with the unconventional Steve Cohen taking the reins last season. Cohen’s ambitions to turn the team around were crushed in August. After sitting comfortably atop the NL East for over three months, the Mets ended the season with a losing record. Understandably, the team is looking to overhaul the front office and even the roster. The Mets were plagued with injuries at the start of the season, suffering most notably from the loss of ace pitcher Jacob Degrom. Although these issues cannot be attributed to Rojas, several questionable decisions and internal antics indicated that a change in leadership was necessary. 

Besides a new manager, the Mets also need a new president of baseball operations. It would make sense to fill this position first and to let the new hire help in the search for a new manager. After no success with first-time managers Mickey Callaway and Luis Rojas, it is expected that Cohen will look to hire someone with experience.

Carlos Beltran, a former Met himself, has been included in the conversation as a possible option. Beltran was previously hired as the Mets manager but resigned after his involvement in the Astros cheating scandal came to light, with Rojas taking his place. The St. Louis Cardinals just dismissed their manager Mike Schildt after losing in the wild card round. Schildt has only managed in the major leagues since 2018, but he has kept his record with the Cardinals above .500 and led the team to three consecutive postseason appearances in that span. Schildt has not yet indicated his plans for the future, but he should at least be considered a possibility. A long time veteran in the league, Ron Washington, has emerged as a strong candidate. Washington has been in the league in some capacity since 2007, currently as third base coach for the rival Atlanta Braves, He served as the Texas Rangers manager for eight seasons. Already familiar with the NL East, it seems he could be a good fit for the Mets. 

Whoever the Mets choose to hire, that manager will inherit a talented team that has shown it has the heart and passion needed to win. With a firm, experienced and nurturing leader, the New York Mets have a bright future ahead.