The New York Mets have high hopes of hiring Buck Showalter, who ranks 24th on the all-time wins list for managers. He has led three teams to the postseason and has been honored with the Manager of the Year award three times. However, he has yet to win a World Series and he understands his expectations with this talented New York Mets squad. The Mets haven’t made the playoffs since 2016, yet, have spent big money in the offseason to ensure these changes. They currently hold the highest payroll in all of MLB.
“The goal here is not simply to compete or have a winning record. It’s about becoming the ultimate victor,” Showalter stated during his official introduction as the new Mets manager. “And we aim to achieve that consistently, not just once.”
There are only two managers in the history of the majors that have won more games than Showalter. The two managers are Dusty Baker and Gene Mauch. Showalter began his career with the New York Yankees in 1992. The Mets finished last year 77-85 after leading the NL East in early August. With an eye towards a successful campaign for the World Series in 2022. The team made several significant signings during the offseason. Notable additions to their roster include Max Scherzer, Starling Marte, Eduardo Escobar, and Mark Canha.
“It won’t be the sole defining factor of my life, but I can say that it now brings me a renewed sense of purpose every day,” Showalter expressed regarding winning a World Series.
He’s emphasized that he understand that sounds selfish, however, he knows the ultimate task is to simply win.
Get more familiar with our new skipper as @AnthonyDiComo discusses the hire of Buck Showalter. https://t.co/MVR6yzjI4e
— New York Mets (@Mets) December 21, 2021
Showalter’s history
Showalter managed the Baltimore Orioles in 2018. He’s been around the game for some time, he understands the game has turned into more of an analytical style of game. He’s ready to adapt and fulfill the purpose the Mets are bringing him in for.
“If someone believes that I’ll go back to the hotel or home and attribute our defeat to others having superior information or utilizing analytics more effectively, then they don’t understand me,” Showalter stated.
“The Mets hold immense value to the fans,” he continued. “They mean a lot to me too. It’s a significant responsibility to maintain what lies ahead. From day one, our priority will be to present a product that instills pride in people.”
