Mets’ latest hires bolster scouting, player development efforts

The New York Mets have made significant additions to the front office of president of baseball operations David Stearns recently, in line with owner Steve Cohen’s goals for sustainable success. Kris Gross, the longtime scouting director for the Houston Astros, is set to lead the amateur scouting department for the Mets, as per sources for The Athletic.

Furthermore, Andy Green, who was previously the Cubs’ bench coach, will join the Mets as a senior executive overseeing player development, league sources have revealed.

While Gross’ definitive title with the Mets is uncertain, sources indicate that he will be given a vice president role, representing a promotion from his previous position as the director of amateur scouting for the Astros. Stearns and Gross have prior experience working together during their time in Houston from 2013-15. It’s worth noting that Green was an interviewee for the Mets’ managerial role before the hiring of Carlos Mendoza.

In his 11 seasons with the Astros, Gross played a key role in overseeing five amateur drafts, including navigating the challenges posed by the team’s absence of first or second-round picks as part of the penalty for sign stealing. Notably, Gross was instrumental in drafting multiple players who went on to appear in the big leagues, such as Korey Lee and Drew Gilbert.

With the recent addition of Gross and the prior success the Mets have seen in the amateur space, the team aims to continue their promising trajectory. Marc Tramuta and Tommy Tanous have contributed to the Mets’ strong draft performances in recent years, with Tanous’s promotion to the director of amateur scouting indicating a significant role for him alongside Gross.

The Mets also plan to shift Tanous into a large advisory/VP role, highlighting their focus on solidifying their scouting and player development collaboration. Additionally, the hiring of Green is expected to further enhance these efforts, given his background in developing defensive infielders and his experience with multiple MLB teams.

Prior to Gross and Green’s appointments, Eduardo Brizuela joined the Mets as a VP/special assistant to Stearns. Brizuela, who previously spent 16 years with the Brewers, brings extensive experience in international scouting, minor-league operations, and player acquisition. The Mets hope these strategic additions to their front office will lead to greater success in the future.

(Photo of Andy Green: Darren Yamashita / USA Today)