Mets Name Jeff Albert as New Hitting Coach Following Staff Overhaul
The New York Mets have announced the appointment of Jeff Albert as their new hitting coach. This move comes after a significant overhaul of their coaching staff. Albert, aged 44, previously served as the director of hitting for the organization and was the Cardinals’ hitting coach in 2018. His MLB coaching career began as an assistant with the Astros.
Mets Refresh Coaching Staff
The Mets’ decision to hire Albert follows the dismissal of hitting coaches Eric Chavez and Jeremy Barnes. Both had a year left on their contracts before their departures. This coaching change is aimed at energizing the team’s hitting program after a challenging season.
Challenges in Scoring
This season, the Mets achieved a sixth-place finish in the MLB with a .753 OPS. However, during the first half, they struggled with run production. The difficulty in scoring with runners in scoring position was a notable issue.
Albert’s Expertise and Plans
Albert joined the Mets before the 2023 season, focusing on the minor league hitting program. A source within the organization praised the minor league system, highlighting its alignment with the major league staff. They described Albert as intelligent and capable, emphasizing his prior experience and strategic insights.
Coaching Staff Departures
| Role | Status |
|---|---|
| Catching Instructor | Glenn Sherlock – Retired |
| Bench Coach | John Gibbons – Stepped Aside |
| Pitching Coach | Jeremy Hefner – Club Option not Picked Up |
| Third Base Coach | Mike Sarbaugh – Contract Expired |
These changes come after the Mets’ second-half struggles, culminating in a crucial loss in Miami, which ended their playoff hopes. Despite the overhaul, manager Carlos Mendoza retains his position.
