Mets to Meet with Former Hitting Coach Kevin Long About Return
· Yahoo Sports
The New York Mets could be bringing back a familiar face as they continue assembling their coaching staff for the 2027 season.
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Former Mets hitting coach Kevin Long is scheduled to meet with the team Tuesday about a potential coaching position, according to Mike Puma of the New York Post.
Long, 59, was let go last week after five seasons as the Philadelphia Phillies' hitting coach.
He previously served as the Mets' hitting coach from 2015 through 2017, including the team's most recent World Series appearance in 2015.
A return to New York would also reunite Long with Juan Soto, whom he worked closely with during their time together with the Washington Nationals.
The two helped Washington win the 2019 World Series, and Puma reported that they remain close.
Long has an extensive coaching background that includes World Series appearances with four different organizations.
Before joining the Mets in 2015, he spent eight seasons as the New York Yankees' hitting coach, including their championship season in 2009.
He then moved to Washington in 2018, remaining with the Nationals through 2021 before joining the Phillies.
Long helped Philadelphia reach the World Series in 2022, but his departure followed a disappointing offensive season in 2026.
The Phillies finished 21st in the majors with a .240 batting average, 23rd with a .312 on-base percentage and 24th with a .395 slugging percentage.
The Mets, meanwhile, are making changes to their coaching staff after another disappointing season.
New York parted ways with director of major league hitting Jeff Albert earlier this month, leaving an opening on its hitting staff.
However, the specific position being discussed has not been reported.
Troy Snitker remains the Mets' hitting coach, with Rafael Fernandez serving as assistant hitting coach.
The potential addition of Long would give manager Andy Green another experienced voice as the Mets prepare for 2027.
Green took over after the Mets moved on from Carlos Mendoza following their disappointing 2026 campaign.
For now, Long's possible return remains in the discussion stage.
Tuesday's meeting could provide the next indication of how New York intends to reshape its coaching staff.