New York Mets owner Steve Cohen held a press conference on Wednesday, one that went more than an hour and featured a puppy taking over the press room once he was done.
Cohen made it clear that he’s still looking for a president of baseball operations to complement general manager Billy Eppler, who currently holds both roles.
The New York Post reported that David Stearns, the former president of baseball operations for the Milwaukee Brewers, is the most “logical” candidate. While the Brewers have him under contract through this season as an advisor, he’s a Manhattan native who went to Harvard.
Cohen didn’t discuss who he’s looking at, but Stearns isn’t the only executive with that sort of experience and ties to the area worth considering.
Former Texas Rangers president of baseball operations Jon Daniels might fit the bill.
Right now, Daniels is a senior advisor to the Tampa Bay Rays, who have the best record in the American League. Daniels' reputation is undergoing a bit of a makeover as Texas leads the American League West with players largely procured during his tenure.
He spent 20 years with the Rangers, first as an assistant general manager to John Hart and then as general manager, where he led the construction of Rangers teams that would reach the World Series in 2010 and '11.
He’s also worked in this sort of power structure. He moved into the baseball operations role late in this time with Texas to hire Chris Young as general manager.
He has the experience and credentials. He also has the geographic ties. He can do Stearns one better in that department.
Daniels grew up in Queens, not far from Citi Field and the Mets’ former home, Shea Stadium. He also went to Cornell in upstate New York.
Daniels may appeal to Cohen due to his experience. Cohen may appeal to Daniels because, well, Cohen doesn’t care how much he spends as long as the Mets win.
Only time will tell if there is interest on either side.
More From SI’s Inside The Rangers:
- Texas Rangers New Nike City Connect Jersey Pay Homage to Dallas-Fort Worth
- No Pride in Texas, Rangers Lone Team Without Pride Night
- Watch: Eva Longoria Wins Over Texas Rangers Fans With First Pitch
- Texas Rangers in Play to Sing Shohei Ohtani
- Arlington Mayor Says Rougned Odor ‘Punch’ Mural to Stay
- Texas Rangers Clubhouse ‘Insane’ Says Reliever
- MLB, Texas Rangers Win Bally Sports Broadcast Suit
- AL West is ‘Ours,’ Not Astros Says Texas Rangers First Baseman
- Former Texas Rangers Favorite Derek Holland Comeback Ends
- Bally Sports Southwest to Televise Nearly All Rangers Games
More must-reads: