In an exceptional defense of a former staff member, ex–New York Mets GM has sounded off against what he called a “misleading” media narrative surrounding a sacked Mets coach. The controversy exploded after a report from SNY proposed that the fired coach had tried to alter Juan Soto’s approach at the plate during his first season with the clubhouse. For many Mets fans, that headline depicted the sacked coach as the culprit behind an unnecessary attempt to fix what was not broken.

To contextualize, the SNY post read: “Eric Chavez tried to change Juan Soto’s approach during the slugger’s first season with the Mets.” The remark instantly provoked online backlash, with fans questioning why a coach would try to adjust the game of one of MLB’s most disciplined and productive hitters.

But the narrative angle fell off when Zack Scott, who previously worked as the Mets’ GM, dropped in to elucidate the situation. “This is misleading,” Scott posted on X (formerly Twitter). “I watched the Chavez interview and understood it to mean that he and Mendy talked about whether Soto could be even better if he changed his early-count approach. But he didn’t say they tried to do it. In fact, he said that he wouldn’t try to push him out of his comfort zone.”

Scott continued, adding that Chavez was being unreasonably criticized: “I don’t know Chavez or have a clue if he’s a good hitting coach, but he’s unfairly taking heat for something that likely never happened.”

So, what really happened? In the Foul Territory interview, Chavez was asked whether Juan Soto could do better if the star were more aggressive early in counts. Chavez said that he had a casual talk with Carlos Mendoza related to the narrative; however, he made it clear that he never tried to push for a change. “Juan, he is a precision hitter,” Chavez said. “I wouldn’t get him out of his comfort zone at all”, he added.

The full analysis of Chavez’s remark highlights a coach brainstorming related to enhancing Soto’s power, not plate discipline, highlighting Soto’s 127 walks, .396 on-base percentage, and career-high 43 homers. The former coach’s vital suggestion was strategic: to move the star in the leadoff position instead of altering Soto’s approach. “He steals bases, gets on base at a 40 percent clip,” Chavez said. “You could be just as dynamic in the leadoff spot… without changing the player too much”, he added.

However, Scott’s statements highlight how quickly some thought processes can distort the truth. The former coach’s analyzed narrative became a point of talking related to changing Juan Soto, when in reality, Chavez focused on the opposite. For the first GM, it was a simple instance of defending fairness: that any coach need not be vilified for an interaction that never crossed the line in interference.

After Scott’s defense of Chavez, the focus around the Mets coaching staff has shifted to powerful replacements, and one name is already gaining attention among fans.

MLB reporters debate Carlos Beltrán’s return as bench coach amid coaching overhaul

With Eric Chavez’s exit and various key coaching changes this offseason, the New York Mets are actively researching options to strengthen their leadership group. One name leading the conversation is Carlos Beltrán, whose long-standing affection for the franchise and wealth of baseball knowledge make him a prime candidate. According to The Mets Pod, hosts Connor Rogers and Joe DeMayo analyzed whether Beltrán would be a suitable option for the clubhouse’s vacant bench coach position.

Beltrán, who was the Mets’ manager for a short-term basis in 2019 before stepping down amid the Astros’ sign-stealing fallout, remains a respected figure within baseball circles. The podcast hosts underscored his blend of player empathy, analytical understanding, and leadership presence, qualities that could elevate franchise dynamics and boost player performance. With the Mets making five major coaching changes this offseason, bringing in a figure such as Beltrán could signal a renewed commitment to experience and structure within the dugout.

Finally, whether Beltrán secures the position ot not, the discussion shows a broader truth: the Mets are retooling their culture, searching for voices that can connect with players such as Juan Soto while guiding younger arms. For many fans, a Beltrán reunion portrays both unfinished business and a potential turning point in the Mets’ pursuit of long-term stability and competitiveness.