Job interview means Kevin no Long shot
LOS ANGELES — The Mets could take the Longview in filling their managerial vacancy.
Kevin Long, the Mets hitting coach for the last three seasons, will be interviewed for the team’s managerial vacancy within the next few days, according to an industry source, as general manager Sandy Alderson and his staff search for Terry Collins’ replacement.
The 50-year-old Long has never managed above the Single-A level in the minor leagues, but has earned the confidence of team officials for his communication skills and grasp of analytics. Though largely untested in a leadership role, Long has supporters in the organization who believe he is capable of holding a team together.
Alderson has spoken to candidates in recent days in a search that could last through the World Series. Other than the planned interview with Long, it’s only known that team brass has reached out to former Tigers manager Brad Ausmus. But Alex Cora, Bob Geren, Chip Hale, Robin Ventura, Joe McEwing and Sandy Alomar Jr. are among the strong possibilities to receive a sit-down with Alderson.
Long was the Yankees’ hitting coach before the Mets hired him following the 2014 season with an eye toward resurrecting Curtis Granderson, who had thrived in The Bronx under Long’s guidance. Granderson rebounded over the next 2 ½ seasons before being traded to the Dodgers, and Long also has been instrumental in fixing Michael Conforto’s swing.
Long is unsigned for next season and could leave for another organization if he is not offered the manager’s job, but Alderson recently indicated he expects Long to stay.
The fact Long has spent 11 seasons in New York between the Yankees and Mets and is well aware of the job demands could make him more attractive to Alderson than other candidates who lack major league managerial experience.
Cora and Ausmus have been linked to openings with the Red Sox and Phillies, and McEwing has interviewed with the Tigers for their managerial opening.