The New York Mets organization appears hesitant to immediately install Carlos Beltran as their new manager following the departure of Carlos Mendoza. Recent reports indicate that while the former star outfielder stands out as a leading candidate, team officials are leaning toward other options to fill the vacancy.
According to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, the Mets would rather bring in Alex Cora to lead the club. Cora, however, is projected to eventually join the Philadelphia Phillies instead. This development leaves uncertainty around Beltran’s prospects despite his strong connections to the franchise from his playing career.
Beltran lacks any prior experience in a coaching or managerial role, which has raised concerns among observers. MLB insider Ken Rosenthal has publicly advised the Mets and president of baseball operations David Stearns to explore different directions when selecting the next skipper.
On a recent episode of Foul Territory, Rosenthal highlighted several proven alternatives, specifically naming David Ross, Brandon Hyde, and Rocco Baldelli.
The Mets previously tapped Beltran for the managerial position back in 2019. Yet he never managed a single game after becoming entangled in the Houston Astros’ sign-stealing controversy. Today, he serves as a special assistant to Stearns within the front office at Citi Field, making a shift to the dugout seem like a natural progression on paper.
Nevertheless, Rosenthal remains unconvinced about that pathway. He emphasizes that the Mets require a battle-tested manager capable of stepping in and immediately providing strong direction. The insider suggested thinking along the lines of Buck Showalter, but not specifically Buck Showalter, pointing instead to candidates with established track records.
David Ross emerges as a particularly compelling choice among the experienced options. During his time with the Chicago Cubs, he helped elevate the team’s performance across each of his three complete seasons at the helm. Although the organization parted ways with him in 2023 to pursue Craig Counsell, Ross earned considerable respect throughout his tenure in Chicago.
Currently working as an analyst for ESPN, Ross has openly expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity. He recently admitted that he would “love” a chance to manage the Mets. His leadership qualities also drew high praise from former manager Joe Maddon, who selected him as one of the three best leaders he has ever encountered.
Maddon noted that Ross never hesitated to address issues directly in the clubhouse during his playing days. That vocal presence and willingness to challenge teammates made him a respected figure and effective communicator inside the Cubs’ environment.
Brandon Hyde represents another viable contender with a solid résumé. He most recently guided the Baltimore Orioles but was dismissed following a disappointing beginning to the 2025 season. Prior to that, Hyde earned the 2023 American League Manager of the Year honor for his work in Baltimore.
Rocco Baldelli could likewise factor into the conversation. The former player spent seven seasons managing the Minnesota Twins and claimed the 2019 Manager of the Year award. His tenure in Minnesota ultimately ended with his release earlier this year.
As the Mets navigate their challenging 2026 campaign despite boasting the largest payroll in Major League Baseball, the pressure to make the right hiring decision has intensified. Front-office leaders, including Stearns, seem drawn to Beltran’s familiarity with the club. Still, the franchise must avoid repeating past missteps that could further derail their competitive window.
Bringing in a seasoned manager with a proven ability to stabilize and elevate a roster would align with the immediate needs of a team eager to turn things around.
The coming weeks should reveal whether the Mets opt for continuity with Beltran or pivot toward one of the more experienced voices currently available on the market.
