The Mets never received permission to speak with Brewers president of baseball operations David Stearns – but they could be getting his right-hand man.
Matt Arnold, the Brewers general manager under Stearns, has spoken to Mets officials, according to an industry source, as they look to fill their president of baseball operations vacancy. The source added it’s possible an offer has already been extended to the 42-year-old Arnold, whose previous experience includes a stint working in the Rays front office.
There is some thought if Arnold takes the Mets job he will look to hire somebody working in the Rays’ front office as the general manager to work with him.
Billy Beane and Theo Epstein are among the big-name executives who spoke to the Mets in recent weeks who declined to be considered for the job. Earlier this week, Giants general manager Scott Harris withdrew his name from consideration. Stearns is under contract with the Brewers, and the Mets weren’t granted permission to speak with him.
If Arnold doesn’t come to the Mets, it’s possible owner Steve Cohen will promote from within. According to sources assistant general manager Ian Levin and vice president of amateur/international scouting Tommy Tanous have been discussed for the job.