Mets' Hitting Coach Search Takes Hit as Two Candidates Drop Out

The New York Mets are back to searching for help with their hitting staff after two prominent candidates dropped out of consideration.

Former Mets hitting coach Kevin Long is no longer a possibility, while Chicago Cubs assistant John Mallee has withdrawn his name from the process.

According to SNY, citing Mike Puma of the New York Post, the Mets and Long failed to reach an agreement after meeting last week about a potential role in the team's hitting department.

Long, 59, previously served as New York's hitting coach from 2015 through 2017, helping the club reach the World Series during his first season.

He also has a strong relationship with Mets star Juan Soto, whom he coached with the Washington Nationals during their 2019 championship season.

The possibility of a reunion had generated interest after Long was dismissed by the Philadelphia Phillies earlier this month.

But the Mets must now look elsewhere.

Mallee, meanwhile, has decided to remain with Chicago rather than pursue an opportunity in New York.

According to SNY, citing ESPN's Jesse Rogers, Mallee withdrew from consideration Monday after previously emerging as another candidate for the opening.

The 57-year-old has spent the past three seasons as the Cubs' assistant hitting coach.

Working alongside Dustin Kelly, Mallee helped Chicago lead the majors in runs (850), slugging percentage (.428) and OPS (.767) this season.

The Mets had been considering Mallee as part of their coaching search, but his decision eliminates another experienced option.

New York began exploring changes after dismissing director of major league hitting Jeff Albert following a disappointing 2026 season.

The Mets finished tied for 20th in the majors with 699 runs, although their offense improved considerably after the trade deadline.

Hitting coach Troy Snitker and assistant Rafael Fernandez remain on manager Andy Green's staff.

The organization also recently explored bringing Long back to New York, but that possibility has now been eliminated.

Meanwhile, the Mets are reportedly promoting longtime minor league coach Mariano Duncan to their major league staff in a newly created role.

According to MLB.com, Duncan will assist position players in several areas and serve as a batting-practice pitcher.

His promotion does not resolve the team's remaining hitting staff vacancy.

With Long and Mallee no longer available, the Mets must identify other candidates as they continue preparing for the 2027 season.