Callaway booted as Mets manager after two seasons

NEW YORK (Heartland Newsfeed) — A 86-76 2019 campaign was not enough to keep the manager of the New York’s National League franchise around for another season. The New York Mets organization announced the firing of manager Mickey Callaway after two seasons leading the club, despite a surge late in the season that put the team in the hunt for postseason play. The Mets fell short of earning a playoff berth by three games, which may have led to a Wild Card game against the Washington Nationals. That berth went to the Milwaukee Brewers (89-73), who lost to the Nationals Tuesday night by a score of 4-3. The Nationals play against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the first game of the National League Divisional Series Thursday night. Mets executive vice president and general manager Brodie Van Wagenen issued a statement thanking Callaway for his “consistent work ethic and dedication over the last two seasons.” “I’m certain that these characteristics will serve him well in his next opportunity,” Wagenen stated. “A decision like this is never easy, however, we believe it is in the best interest of the franchise at this time.” The Mets joins six other franchises — Los Angeles Angels, Chicago Cubs, San Francisco Giants, San Diego Padres, Pittsburgh Pirates and Kansas City Royals — in seeking a new skipper in the offseason. The 44-year-old Callaway was hired in October 2017 following the retirement of then-manager Terry Collins. He departs the franchise with a 163-161 record. Callaway previously served as a pitching coach within the Cleveland Indians franchise and farm system from 2013 to 2017.