According to Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports, the rival Marlins might be interested in a more strong/volatile personality to take the helm as manager for next year. The Marlins might be interested in such candidates as Larry Bowa, Jim Fregosi, and Mets A manager, Wally Backman.
The Mets can't let Backman get away. Yes he has a big mouth in the press, but his managerial success cannot be underestimated. Backman has not only won at every level, but has won in every organization he has been a part of. Many disagree with me in my choice, but I have been clamoring for Backman since the search for a Mets manager yielded Willie Randolph.
Backman does not tolerate nor accept losing, or less than 100% all out attitude from his club. The problem with this team since Art Howe, Willie, and now Jerry, losing has become acceptable. Backman will not allow his team to be complacent. This is exactly what the doctor ordered.
It was reported that Jeff Wilpon visited with Backman last week in Buffalo. No confirmation of what was discussed, but I can't imagine there was no conversation about the Mets job.
Backman opened his mouth last week saying in part that he thought he could have handled some situations better than Manuel. I have no doubt he could have. I don't think his quote was as inflammatory as the press made it out to be, because he also said he wants to see the Mets do well, and didn't want to see Manuel do poorly.
If the Mets lose Backman to the hated Marlins, this would be yet another PR quagmire the Mets will be unable to get away from for the 2011 season, if not further.
The ironic part is that Backman was the AAA manager of the Birmingham Barons (ChiSox organization) when Manuel was the ChiSox manager. When Manuel was not coming back for the 2004 season, Backman vied for the job. It was not well received, and neither man was brought back for the '04 season. I would hate to see a repeat with the Mets. The Mets need to have Wally at the helm in '11.
On other possible post season moves, Rosenthal also says that former Rangers GM John Hart or Dan Jennings, Vice President, Player Personnel and Assistant General Manager for the Marlins, might be a possibility as Mets GM for 2011 season. According to Rosenthal, insiders say Minaya knows his days as Mets GM are numbered.
Many options for the upcoming off-season. The Mets must proceed wisely, or 2010 will look like a fantastic season to what 2011 might be.
Sources: Metsmerized On Line, Baseball Reference, MLB.com
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