NY Mets reportedly no longer considering Kevin Long reunion, Cubs coach as roadblocks continue

The New York Mets will not hire Kevin Long or Chicago Cubs assistant hitting coach John Mallee for their hitting coach vacancy. According to reports, the Mets met with Long last week but determined there was no match, while Mallee withdrew his name from consideration to remain with Chicago. The Mets will continue their search for another hitting coach this offseason.

A league source indicated that the Mets face challenges attracting outside staff following consecutive seasons missing the playoffs. After finishing last in the NL East with a 74-88 record, the organization dismissed manager Carlos Mendoza in June and parted ways with director of hitting Jeff Albert, while retaining coaches Troy Snitker and Rafael Fernandez.