Andy Green’s New Role with the Mets

Andy Green is stepping into his sixth season as manager of the Mets, but he also has plans to return to a previous position.

This former Padres manager will be overseeing player development, a role he held for two-and-a-half seasons before taking over for Carlos Mendoza in the Mets’ dugout on Friday.

“I really enjoyed my previous role; it was a choice I made,” Green mentioned before the Mets’ 2-1 loss to the Phillies at Citi Field. “I opted to come out of the dugout and said no quite a few times when it came to [managerial] opportunities from other teams.”

Several rookies on the Mets’ roster, including Carson Benge, AJ Ewing, and Nolan McLean, are players that Green helped nurture during his time in player development.

“It’s actually a lot of fun,” Green reflected. “You appreciate the chances you’re given… Sometimes you find yourself really liking certain players before the city does, and that’s something I love. I chose this path because of the amazing people I get to work with.”

Andrew Christie, the director of player development, will take the reins of the farm system while Green steps into his executive role. However, Green has indicated that he plans to stay involved in player development during the season.

Interestingly, Green has expressed that his enthusiasm for full-time management isn’t what it used to be.

“I was working like crazy in player development. I had my job, but I made it home for Father’s Day weekend to take my daughter to a Broadway show sometimes,” he shared. “Once you take on this managerial responsibility, that kind of thing doesn’t really happen anymore.”

Meanwhile, Tyrone Taylor has returned from the disabled list after missing time due to a right hip flexor strain, though he didn’t play on Friday. To make room, MJ Melendez was optioned to Triple-A Syracuse.

The Mets also optioned reliever Daniel Duarte and recalled Zach Thornton from Syracuse to face the Phillies.

Christian Scott, who is coming off the IL to start on Saturday, is another player connected to Green, having played in the Mets’ farm system.

“He’s definitely the guy,” Scott remarked. “He brings a wealth of experience as a coach, player, and in the front office, so he really understands the game and shares that knowledge with our young players.”

Scott had a cortisone injection in his right hip last week for impingement but noted that he has managed to pitch successfully, boasting a 3.10 ERA, which is a bright spot for a struggling rotation.

“We’re in a good place right now,” Scott added. “I aim to be on the field often, to see how my body handles long outings and different situations, and just keep that going for the rest of the season.”