Buck Showalter was managing the Orioles when Robinson Cano was at his peak, tormenting AL East teams like Baltimore during his tenure with the Yankees.
Now, nearly a decade later, and Showalter had to say goodbye to the eight-time All-Star after the Mets decided to designate the 39-year-old for assignment. So did general manager Billy Eppler, who was the Yankees’ director of scouting when Cano rose up the minor league ranks, and hitting coach Eric Chavez, who played in the infield with Cano for two seasons when Cano was in his prime.
“All of it is difficult,” Showalter said of the decision to DFA Cano. “Billy has known him since he was 18, 19 years old. It was emotional for all of us. I know Chavy and him were close too, you think about those type of relationships.
“The good news is we fully expect him to get another opportunity. Wouldn’t at all surprise anybody for him to contribute.”
Showalter said the decision to part with the struggling Cano was to make way for others to get a chance for more playing time, potentially Dominic Smith, who had a four-hit night on Sunday, just before major league rosters shrunk from 28 to 26 players.
“Just what was best for our club at this point with the personnel,” Showalter said. “Being able to get some people in the mix more consistently that we think are deserving.”
To be able to make that decision from a pure baseball standpoint, despite owing Cano nearly $37 million through next season, is a welcomed sight for Mets fans, and a testament to owner Steve Cohen, who Showalter says consistently prioritizes what is best for the team, no matter the cost.
“I’ve been fortunate to have good owners throughout my career,” Showalter said. “Couldn’t ask for a better support than Steve’s given us. You can tell how much he loves the Mets and the fans. He trusts the decisions being made…he’s gonna ask why and what your thought process is, but he’s been so supportive of things.”
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