ESPN News Services Oct 1, 2023, 2:08 pm ET3 minute read
Francisco Alvarez hits 2 HRs including a grand slam
Francisco Alvarez hits two home runs, including a grand slam, putting the Mets well ahead of the Phillies.
Buck Showalter told reporters Sunday that he will not return as manager of the New York Mets next season.
Showalter, 67, made the announcement before Sunday’s game against the Philadelphia Phillies.
Showalter’s Mets have been one of Major League Baseball’s biggest disappointments this season. They entered Sunday’s games with a record of 74-86 despite boasting the highest payroll in the majors. They trail the National League East champion Atlanta Braves by 29½ games.
He was named National League Manager of the Year last season and led the Mets to a 101-61 record and the top wild-card berth. However, the Mets lost to the San Diego Padres in three games in the wild card round.
New York is expected to hire David Stearns as president of baseball operations over general manager Billy Eppler, and Showalter’s departure clears the way for Stearns to select his manager.
“We are moving in a new direction, with a new president of baseball operations, and we are letting Buck know that we are parting ways. We will begin the search for a new manager immediately,” Mets owner Steve Cohen said in a statement.
“Buck is a generational manager and we appreciate what he has done for our team, including leading us to 101 regular season and postseason victories last year. The commitment and warmth that Buck brings to the sport will be felt by our organization. “We wish Buck all the best in the next chapter of his career.”
Last year, Showalter became the first man to win Manager of the Year four times with four different teams (1994 New York Yankees, 2004 Texas Rangers, 2014 Baltimore Orioles). He joined Bobby Cox and Tony La Russa as the only four-time honorees in history.
“It was an honor to have the opportunity to lead a second New York team. “I’m proud of what the Mets have done,” Showalter said. “We won almost 180 games in two years. Last year in particular, I had more fun than ever before. It reminded me why I’ve always loved this type of work.”
The Associated Press and Portal contributed to this report.