Overview
- Multiple outlets report that Justin Willard is emerging as the favorite and is poised to be named the Mets’ pitching coach, with The Athletic first and the New York Post corroborating.
- Willard would replace Jeremy Hefner, whose option was declined after New York’s late-season collapse that knocked the club out of a playoff spot.
- Willard, 35, has served as Boston’s director of pitching since November 2024 after previous roles in the Twins system and college coaching, and he is credited with recent Red Sox pitching-development gains.
- He has articulated a command-first philosophy to “throw nasty stuff in the zone,” a focus that aligns with the Mets’ 2025 control problems, including one of MLB’s highest walk totals.
- The reported hire comes as part of a broader coaching overhaul that also includes expected organizational additions such as Rachel Folden as Double-A Binghamton hitting coach.