Geren granted permission to talk to Dodgers
Former A's skipper hopes to return to managerial ranks after 4 years with Mets
NEW YORK -- The Mets have granted bench coach Bob Geren permission to interview for the Dodgers' vacant managerial position, team officials said Wednesday, giving him a potential second opportunity to manage in the big leagues.
Geren, 54, has served as Terry Collins' bench coach for the past four seasons, giving the Mets' dugout a sabermetric spin. He managed in Oakland from 2007-11, compiling a 334-376 record. Geren's relationship with Dodgers general manager Farhan Zaidi dates back to that time.
"He's done an exceptional job as our bench coach," Mets general manager Sandy Alderson said. "He's tuned in to the analytics."
The Dodgers parted ways last month with former manager Don Mattingly, who subsequently signed a four-year deal with the Marlins. The Dodgers are also reportedly interviewing former L.A. World Series hero and D-backs manager Kirk Gibson.
"I'm real excited for Bobby, because he's done a great job," Collins said. "He's been invaluable for me. I think he'll do a great job. He's of the new breed. Statistically, he's off the charts. We all learn from our past and what we see now. He knows the importance of talking to these players today. I think he'll be a great candidate. I hope he gets it."
The Mets have invited all seven of their coaches back under Collins, who signed a two-year extension to remain manager. That includes Geren, hitting coach Kevin Long and his assistant, Pat Roessler, pitching coach Dan Warthen, bullpen coach Ricky Bones, first-base coach Tom Goodwin and third-base coach Tim Teufel.