Empire State of Mind: Former Yankees coach eyes triumphant return to New York

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In a potential homecoming twist, former New York Yankees coach Phil Nevin may soon find himself back in the Big Apple, this time donning the blue and orange of the Mets. Mike Puma, reporting for the New York Post revealed that Nevin is currently under consideration for the role of Mets bench coach.

What is going to happen?

This prospect carries a sense of familiarity for the Mets’ new skipper, Carlos Mendoza, as he and Nevin previously collaborated during their tenure with the Yankees. Nevin served as the third base coach in the Bronx from 2018 to 2021, establishing a working relationship that could prove beneficial in the Mets’ coaching hierarchy.

However, the potential reunion with the Mets isn’t the only managerial opportunity on Nevin’s horizon. The seasoned coach is also a leading candidate for the managerial vacancy with the San Diego Padres. This opening arose when Bob Melvin departed to helm the San Francisco Giants, prompting San Diego to formally interview Nevin earlier in the month.

Nevin’s coaching journey took an interesting turn after the Yankees opted not to renew his contract following the conclusion of the 2021 season. He subsequently joined the Los Angeles Angels as their third base coach. His inaugural season with the Angels saw him stepping into the role of interim manager after the dismissal of Joe Maddon. Despite Nevin’s return to the Angels for the 2023 season on a one-year deal, the team’s 73-89 record did not translate into a contract extension for the seasoned coach.

The managerial landscape for the Mets underwent a seismic shift when Buck Showalter declared, ahead of the 2023 season finale against the Phillies, that he would not be returning as the Mets’ skipper in 2024. In response to this void, the Mets, under the direction of new President of Baseball Operations David Stearns, brought in Carlos Mendoza to assume the managerial reins.

As the Mets contemplate potential candidates for their coaching staff, the consideration of Phil Nevin brings with it the echoes of successful collaboration from their time with the Yankees. Whether Nevin will pivot to the Mets’ bench or venture west to guide the Padres remains uncertain, adding an element of suspense to his coaching trajectory. Only time will reveal which team will secure the services of this experienced and well-regarded coach, bringing a touch of New York baseball nostalgia to the forefront.

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