Mets GM Brodie Van Wagenen wasn't supposed to travel to Philadelphia for the team's series with the Phillies, but after the incident that transpired between manager Mickey Callaway, LHP Jason Vargas, and Newsday's Tim Healey following Sunday's loss, he made it a point to make the trip.
Van Wagenen said he "wanted to make sure I made myself available" to address the altercation and the Mets' statement regarding it. He also added that the Mets have decided to fine both Callaway and Vargas.
"As the statement said last night, the Mets organization does not condone the behavior that took place yesterday," Van Wagenen said. "We are committed to trying to create a healthy work environment for everybody that works in the game. That includes the players, the coaches, the media and everybody else.
"The altercation was disappointing. It was regrettable on many levels. And we hope that moving forward we can ensure that there is a respectful environment for both players and media."
Van Wagenen met with each party separately, and a team meeting followed. He noted that both Callaway and Vargas knew they could've handled the situation better.
"I think the players recognized their role in the events," Van Wagenen said. "They understood their behavior could have and should have been different and they accepted their fines."
So how do the Mets move on from this distraction? Van Wagenen is certain their priorities be focused on winning games, and it starts with this crucial four-game set with the Phillies starting Monday night.
"I think they're professionals," he said. "I think they recognize that they have jobs to do, that their mission statement is to try and win games. We've got an important series this week and clearly an important stretch of games here coming up."
And, though Callaway's frustrations clearly boiled over after another blown lead resulting in a loss, Van Wagenen's view on his job status hasn't faltered.
"My confidence remains the same in Mickey's ability to do the job," he said.