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NY Mets may face major roadblock in convincing potential hitting coaches to choose them

The Mets are searching for another hitting coach, but may have trouble hiring who they desire.
ByPat Ragazzo
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Jun 30, 2021; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Washington Nationals left fielder Juan Soto (L) celebrates with Nationals hitting coach Kevin Long (R) after scoring a run against the Tampa Bay Rays in the first inning at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 30, 2021; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Washington Nationals left fielder Juan Soto (L) celebrates with Nationals hitting coach Kevin Long (R) after scoring a run against the Tampa Bay Rays in the first inning at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports | USA TODAY Sports

The New York Mets fired director of hitting Jeff Albert after just one season in his new position with the major league club. The Mets were so pleased with Albert's work in leading their minor league hitting program that they promoted him to a major league position ahead of last season. However, the Mets gave Albert only one season before they felt it was time to move on.

As a result, the team is looking for a new hitting coach to fill this vacancy. Among the names the Mets are considering include Kevin Long, who was recently let go by the Philadelphia Phillies, and Chicago Cubs assistant hitting coach John Mallee.

Why Kevin Long could be the favorite

Long is the more established name on this list, as he was the Mets' hitting coach back in 2015, the last time they went to the World Series. He also won two titles, one with the New York Yankees in 2009 and then 10 years later with the Washington Nationals with a young Juan Soto in 2019.

"It feels like Kevin Long has the inside track, given his relationship with Juan Soto from their time with the Washington Nationals," a league source told FanSided. "Mallee is a great candidate, if Long declines. Mallee has a long track record of working well with star players."

Like Long, Mallee has a strong reputation throughout the industry. Mallee was at the forefront of helping Pete Crow-Armstrong develop from a below average hitter into an MVP frontrunner in Chicago. Mallee was also the Cubs' hitting coach when they won the World Series back in 2016, breaking their 108-year drought.

But if the Mets are focusing on experience and résumé, the safe hire would be to bring back Long, who has had success just about everywhere he has gone. He had success in Queens as the Mets' hitting coach as well.

The Mets have hitting coach Troy Snitker and assistant hitting coach Rafael Fernandez returning to the coaching staff next season.

The roadblock the Mets may face

While the Mets have been interviewing candidates for a hitting coach position, they could have trouble hiring the individual they desire. This isn't surprising given the disastrous year the Mets just endured in 2026, where they failed to meet lofty expectations.

"The problem the Mets face is that candidates are more interviewing them than the other way around," the same league source said. "The industry feels like going to the Mets can set you career back."

Despite having a hefty payroll. the Mets have missed the postseason in back-to-back seasons. At this point in time, there is a ton of uncertainty surrounding the club and if they miss out on the playoffs again in 2027, there will likely be sweeping changes. The Mets aren't currently the most attractive destination for outsiders given what has transpired the past two seasons and due to a lack of stability.

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