(Port Saint Lucie) Carlos Beltran declined to discuss his role in the Houston Astros sign-stealing scandal, preferring to focus on his new role with the New York Mets.
“Today is not about the Astros,” Beltran said. This day belongs to the Mets. »
Beltran was signed by the Mets in 1er November 2019 to replace manager Mickey Callaway. But the team announced his departure on the following January 16, without him having managed a single match.
His departure was announced three days after he was the only Astros player identified in a Major League Baseball report that found the Texas team broke the rules by using electronic devices to steal signals from opposing clubs on their way to winning the World Series. 2017 .
“I think that’s what had to happen and I’ve moved on,” Beltran said.
He joined the Mets last week as a special adviser to general manager Billy Eppler. He guarantees that he did not expect to return.
“I had no idea, but that’s how the world works. […] When this opportunity was offered to me, I didn’t hesitate to say yes. »
Beltran saw his name appear on 46.5% of ballots in his first year of Hall of Fame eligibility in January, well below the required 75%. His role in this scandal certainly swayed voters.
“I was reassured (with the result), said Beltran. I know that I went through a difficult time in my career. I also know that some of my supporters are no longer supporters today. But in the end, I have to live my life. I I have to look forward.”
Beltran said several teams have offered him on-court work for the upcoming season. He sees his new role as a bridge between players and management, where he can help players deal with the pressure of playing in New York.
“They test you; they push you. But most of all, they push you to be better. »
Beltran wants to be the mentor he didn’t have when he was coaching the Kansas City Royals organization.
“Because it wasn’t given to you, that doesn’t mean you can’t offer it,” he said. Personally, I think you should show a little more love when you’re on the affiliate network. You need to feel that people care about your success. That’s what motivates me: to be that person I didn’t have for these young people. »
Now 45, the nine-time All-Star played with the Mets from 2005 to 2011. He ranks sixth in club history in home runs (149) and RBIs (559). A quintessential American rookie with the Royals in 1999, he also played for the San Francisco Giants, St. Louis Cardinals and New York Yankees. He finished his career with averages of . 279 / . 350 / . 486, 435 home runs and 312 stolen bases.
He doesn’t reject the idea of becoming a manager one day.
“You can never say no when you love the sport and you love being around the players and having an impact on their development,” he said. I am at peace where I am now, but I don’t know about the future. »
