Carlos Beltran made his first appearance at Citi Field since the Astros sign-stealing scandal ended his tenure as Mets manager before managing even one game.
But in Queens to celebrate the legacy of Roberto Clemente before New York took on the Pirates, Beltran’s presence was a reminder of what he meant to the Mets as a player, and what he means to Puerto Rican big leaguers like Francisco Lindor and Edwin Diaz.
Both told SNY’s Andy Martino that they would love to have Beltran with the team in some capacity.
“Of course. One hundred percent,” Lindor said, well aware of Beltran’s role with the now infamous 2017 Astros. “I think a lot of things were thrown on him. Whether it was true or not, I think there should have been a little bit more of a silence, I would say.”
The Mets obviously have a manager that has enjoyed immediate and profound success in Buck Showalter, but prominent contributors to the 2022 Mets would immediately welcome Beltran in the form of a front office or coaching role.
“Hopefully when he gets back to wanting to be on the field or front office, whatever he wants to do, I hope he gets the opportunity,” Lindor said. “Would I want him to be here? One hundred percent. Whether it be here or somewhere else, I would be happy for him.”
Diaz added, “Of course. He knows so much about baseball. He can help the youngest players to develop. He was one of the best players in baseball. I think he should be in the Hall of Fame.”
Follow Ryan Chichester on Twitter: @ryanchichester1
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