Wally Backman Mets Next Manager?

Sat, 06 Nov 2010 23:33:00 -0400

Former New York Mets second baseman Wally Backman flew out to California this weekend to interview for the Mets open manager position.

Mets GM Sandy Alderson said in his introductory press conference that he might prefer a manager who has a fiery attitude but also smart intellectually

“The manager is a critical part of the overall leadership structure. I love a manager who will kick ass and take names and go toe-to-toe with an umpire. It’s part of the entertainment value.”

Backman first started his managing career in 2002 with the Chicago White Sox Double-A affiliate, Birmingham Barons and led them to a 79-61 record. Two years later, he managed the Single-A affiliate, Lancaster Jethawks of the Arizona Diamondbacks. Backman and the Jethawks had a 86-54 record and was named Minor League Manager of the Year by the Sporting News. After the 2004 season, the Diamondbacks hired Backman to be their MLB manager.

Four days after hiring him the Diamondbacks fired him citing legal and financial problems.

After being let go, Backman would go on and manager the South Georgia Peanuts of the Independent South Coast League and the Joilet Jackhammers before being fired in 2009.

The Mets then hired him to manage the Brooklyn Cyclones. Under his eye, the Cyclones went 51-24 capturing the McNamara Division Title but lost the New York Penn League Championship Series.

Even if Backman isn’t hired to be the Mets next manager, one has to figure whomever is bought in that Alderson and the Mets ownership will recommend Backman as a coach on the staff.

The question is however, will Backman accept anything less than being manager?

Mets Baseball

Wally Backman Mets Next Manager?