There was a time when veteran manager Buck Showalter was a potential candidate for the Mets' managerial vacancy. But, after Carlos Beltran mutually agreed to part ways with the team, New York decided the next man for the job was an up-and-comer in its own system: Luis Rojas.

And Showalter loves the decision.

Speaking with NJ.com's Bob Klapisch, Showalter touched on a variety of topics, including being a candidate for several managerial spots this offseason like the Mets. Showalter didn't land any of them, and instead he was set up to work for YES Network before this 2020 season was suspended.

When the Mets promoted Rojas, though, Showalter thought it was a great decision. Why? Because Rojas reminds him of himself.

"Let me say this about the Mets: I like their manager. I don't know him, but I like his path. I'm a big bio freak and I know where he's been. I think: 'That was me once.' I bet he doesn't know I'm a big fan of his or that I once managed against his father (Felipe Alou) in the (Class-A) Florida State League (in 1987-88)."

Like Rojas, Showalter worked up through the minor leagues before getting his shot at managing in the bigs. And it was Rojas' father in Alou who actually taught Showalter a thing or two about learning the ropes in professional ball.

"I learned a lot from Felipe," Showalter explained. "For instance, that he would call for a steal one pitch in advance. I finally realized that and pitched out. In those days there were about eight people in the stands, so I could hear Felipe's booming voice all the way from the other dugout. He tipped his hat and said, 'It's about time you figured it out!'"

Fast forwarding to now when sports are currently on hold, this isn't what Rojas wanted in his first year managing the team. However, MLB is working hard to salvage their season, and Rojas continues to work with his staff and keeping up with his players to make sure they're as prepared as possible for when the league does return.

And when it does, expect Showalter, who managed 20 years in the majors with the Yankees, Rangers, Diamondbacks and Orioles, to be watching closely at someone he believes is the right man for the job in Flushing.

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