Pat Murphy Was Mets' Top Manager Choice in 2019 Before Hiring Carlos Beltrán, Ex-GM Reveals

Milwaukee Brewers manager Pat Murphy was the leading candidate to manage the New York Mets in 2019, a role that eventually went to Carlos Beltrán, according to former Mets General Manager Brodie Van Wagenen. Van Wagenen, who now represents Murphy, confirmed that Murphy was his top choice to succeed Mickey Callaway.

Murphy, who was the bench coach for the Brewers at the time, was a finalist for the Mets' managerial position alongside Carlos Beltrán and Eduardo Perez. Murphy recalled that his only hesitation about taking the job, which he desired, was the uncomfortable travel arrangements during the interview process, including sitting in a middle seat in coach on flights to New York. Van Wagenen stated that Murphy excelled in the interviews, calling him his "1,000 percent recommendation."

Despite Van Wagenen's recommendation, the decision to hire a manager ultimately rested with the Wilpon ownership group. Jeff Wilpon, in a text message, stated he did not recall the specific factors that led to the decision to hire Beltrán. However, sources suggest there were internal concerns about how Murphy's "folksy, blunt style" would translate in the New York market.

Carlos Beltrán was hired as manager on November 1, 2019. His tenure was brief, as he resigned on January 16, 2020, without managing a single game. Beltrán's resignation followed his implication in the 2017 Houston Astros sign-stealing scandal. Murphy indicated that the Mets made further inquiries about him around that time, and despite his disappointment at not being the initial choice, he remained interested in the position.