Andy Martino, SNY.tv | Twitter |

Mets higher-ups weren't talking publicly earlier this week about potential replacements for Mickey Callaway, but that doesn't mean we couldn't dig around with other sources. Folks in the game had anticipated this managerial opening for months, so there was no shortage of conversation around the subject.

Here's some reporting on a variety of potential candidates to replace Callaway, who the Mets announced was relieved of his duties Thursday. This list is not intended to be comprehensive. We're only presenting candidates here on whom we have a concrete nugget of information.

Joe Girardi

Months ago, we reported that the Mets have done background work on the former Yankees manager. The team has expressed private concerns about Girardi's sometimes tense demeanor with players and media, but are drawn to his skill, intelligence and experience. Girardi wants to manage again and would consider the Mets.

Buck Showalter

Showalter, a brilliant and polarizing figure in the game, has supporters and detractors in the Mets organization. Some folks are impressed by Showalter's charisma and instincts, others wonder how collaborative he can be. Expect him to be on the list of potential candidates.

Luis Rojas

While the Mets' quality control coach is seen as a promising managerial prospect, some influential folks in the organization believe he is not quite ready, and should be a bench coach first.

Mike Matheny

While several folks in the game have noted that Matheny and Fred Wilpon are closer than people realize because of their University of Michigan connection, Matheny is widely expected to be the next manager of the Royals. He is tightly wound, and might struggle in New York. Still, because of the connection, his name could arise in the Mets' process.

A.J. Hinch

The Astros manager is Brodie Van Wagenen's close friend, and industry speculation has swirled for months that the Mets might try to trade for him. This one is likely to remain an interesting rumor, though. Folks familiar with the situation say that while Hinch might be ready for a new challenge, a manager trade would simply be too complicated, and too much of a longshot.

Joe Espada

The Astros bench coach has been a hot name in managerial searches for at least a year. Some perspective: When you're well-liked, people tend to float your name to reporters. That's both a compliment to Espada and a slight reality check about his chances. Don't be surprised to see him get a Mets interview, though.

David Cone

The former Met and current YES broadcaster made his desire to manage known the last time the Yankees had an opening. He is deeply conversant in analytics, and an affable communicator. The Mets likely prefer experience, but Cone could represent an Aaron Boone-type moonshot.

Joe Maddon

Friends of the ousted Cubs skipper expect him to become the next manager of the Angels.

John Gibbons

The longtime Toronto skipper has maintained his Mets ties, even slipping unnoticed (or so he thought!) into a team alumni event at Citi Field in 2019.

Carlos Beltran

A sharp guy learning the management side of the game as a Yankees advisor, Beltran did not leave Queens on great terms with the Mets.

Bruce Bochy

If the Giants legend decides to un-retire for 2020, word is the Mets won't see him as a fit.

Fredi Gonzalez

Popular among most players, the former Braves and Marlins skipper would check the experience box. He's been mentioned by some non-Mets people as a possibility.

Robin Ventura

The former White Sox manager wasn't ready to return to the game two years ago, when he respectfully declined the chance to interview for the Mets opening. His current level of interest is unknown, but the Mets would likely talk to Ventura if he was so inclined.

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