BOSTON — Changes at the Top for the Mets

Andy Green might not be with the Mets for an extended period, stepping in for the recently dismissed Carlos Mendoza. Still, Terry Collins, who previously managed the Mets, has faith in Green’s potential to make a noteworthy difference during his interim tenure.

Collins interacted with Green back in 2010 when he was the minor league field coordinator, which was Green’s last season as a player.

Green primarily played in Triple-A Buffalo that season and consulted with Collins, who became the Mets’ manager the following year. “I had a conversation with Mr. Green about operations for that year,” Collins mentioned on Friday. “He was bright, knowledgeable, and really passionate about the game. At that time, he was uncertain about continuing his playing career.”

Over four major league seasons, Green participated in 140 games, including four for the Mets in 2009. On Collins’ suggestion, he took a coaching role in 2011 and made his way back to the majors in 2015 as the third base coach for the Diamondbacks.

Just a year later, he was appointed manager of the Padres. Collins remarked, “Suddenly, he’s this major league coach, then a manager.” After this season, Green is expected to transition back to the front office.

Collins also expressed confidence in Green’s coaching abilities. “He’s intense, which is likely what they need right now. Carlos did a commendable job turning things around. Sometimes, a fresh voice or personality can really make a difference,” he added.

Interestingly, Collins pointed out how he and Green share a similar background, as both were smaller players striving to maximize their potential. “Neither of us was blessed with extraordinary size or power. A player like that tends to realize they must compete harder, and that could benefit the team,” Collins reflected.

He also recalled a tense moment between Green and Dodgers manager Dave Roberts during a 2017 game, where Roberts received a suspension after shoving Green amidst a dispute with the umpires. “Andy is intense,” Collins said. “Perhaps that’s what the Mets need right now. Their players haven’t been performing as expected. I truly wish Andy all the best, and I have confidence Carlos will bounce back.”