The New York Mets have opted to pick up the 2015 option on GM Sandy Alderson's contract and extend him for two more years. They also announced their plan to keep Terry Collins as manager for 2015, which is the final year of his contract.
Alderson was introduced as general manager of the New York Mets in 2010 after the team parted ways with Omar Minaya before the 2011 season. The four-year deal included an option for 2015 and the Mets were hopeful that the former CEO of the San Diego Padres could help turn the franchise around that was rocked by the Bernie Madoff scandal and what was considered poor management by Minaya.
Since taking over as GM, Alderson shed the Mets' payroll from over $140 million to less than $85 million and traded away outfielder Carlos Beltran, pitcher R.A. Dickey, first baseman Ike Davis, and outfielder Marlon Byrd for prospects that include pitcher Zack Wheeler (now in the starting rotation), catcher Travis d'Arnaud (the Mets starting catcher), pitcher Noah Syndergaard and relief pitcher Vic Black (currently in the Mets bullpen). For the past four seasons, the Mets have hovered around the .500 mark as the rebuilding process continues. They're in place to finish second in the division this year, but are likely going to be under .500 for the sixth straight season. They haven't made the playoffs since they reached the NLCS in 2006, but the nucleus of the new Mets could turn things around.
"We're very happy with the process that's in place, the development of our players and the overall direction we're taking to get to the next level," COO Jeff Wilpon said, via the Mets website. "We want Sandy to continue to explore all the ways to improve the team. He does have payroll flexibility, whether through free agency or trades. And we're looking forward to 2015, as well as Sandy's leadership and guidance, in getting us to the postseason."
New York will also keep Collins for the final year of his contract. Collins has compiled a 301-341 record with the Mets - what many believe is a solid job considering the mess the franchise has been. He's especially worked well with what he had this year: David Wright wasn't healthy for much of the season; Matt Harvey missed the entire year as he recovers from Tommy John surgery; and closer Bobby Parnell suffered an elbow injury early in the season that required the same procedure. Collins had also been tasked with working in youngsters Zack Wheeler and Jacob deGrom into the rotation, who have both pitched very well.
"I'm excited -- I mean very, very excited," the 65-year-old Collins said. "These jobs are special. This is a special place. I've said it many times: We're very, very close."
The Mets are now looking toward 2015, which will likely be a tough year considering the Nationals will still remain a serious playoff contender, the Braves are looking to rebound after a poor second half to 2014, and the Marlins are an up-and-coming young team that has surprised many. It's up to the Mets to make some noise in the NL East next season.
