Mets decide on next manager after Beltran
Justin Toscano North Jersey Record
NEW YORK – Just over a week after Carlos Beltrán lost his job due to the sign stealing controversy, the Mets had cause for celebration. Luis Rojas, standing in front of a large crowd in the ballpark’s news conference room, buttoned up a No. 19 Mets home jersey. The 38year-old told a packed room he felt like “the most lucky man in the world” as he embarks on this opportunity.
On Jan. 13, Rojas was the team’s quality control coach, viewed as a potential riser in the industry. He could not have seen this day coming, and while it occurred so soon because of an unfortunate situation, he feels ready.
There is something heartwarming about watching Rojas assume his post in this new gig. While none of us are behind the curtain during the hiring process, you can safely say Rojas has earned this.
“This guy’s real. You feel it,” general manager Brodie Van Wagenen said. “Our players are
KEVIN R. WEXLER/NORTHJERSEY.COM familiar with it, they know he has substance. When we’re from a leadership group looking for people to represent our brand in a meaningful way and to motivate our players ... when someone has the poise of Luis Rojas and commands a room, it can create great things.”
He might be a first-time MLB manager, but he’s been calling the shots for years. This season will mark his 15th with the Mets, including eight as a minor league manager. He even managed in winter ball, saying he recommends other coaches do so because “the level of competition is high and it will get you ready. It will advance your coaching.”
“I’ve been prepared for this,” Rojas said. “It’s something that goes way back.
“We’re going to have accountability with each other. That accountability is going to be also with our fan base – that likes to win, and we understand it – and that accountability is going to be with the press as well.”
He’s made a lineup. He’s decided when to warm up pitchers and make changes. He’s dealt with the morale of players on a daily basis.
When the Mets introduced Beltrán, they spoke of bringing one of their own home. That feeling goes even further with Rojas.
“There’s a lot of pride,” Van Wagenen said. “When someone is homegrown and someone has an organic development to a job like this, it’s a credit to an entire organization . ... This is a guy that paid his dues and that understood the organization.”
Rojas was part of a group of five finalists the first time around. He knows the players. He has managerial experience, even if not in the big leagues – yet.
“Luis was helping with logistics; he’s been part of spring trainings; he knows how to set up a day; he has structure to his day,” Van Wagenen said.
“As a minor league manager, everything falls on your shoulders, whereas as a major league manager you have a lot of support. Luis’ voice was heard very loudly amongst the coaches’ room.”