“This is a dream job for me.”
Jared Porter has been waiting for an opportunity like this with the Mets, and he couldn’t be any happier to get to work as the team’s new GM.
Here are some takeaways from his lengthy news conference with the media via Zoom on Monday, where the former assistant GM of the Diamondbacks touched on a multitude of topics as he jumps into his new role with New York:
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Emphasis on innovation
Team president Sandy Alderson noted that one of the pillars Porter holds dear in terms of building a championship team is innovation, and that was one of the many reasons the Mets were interested in hiring him.
Porter explains why it’s key for any ballclub:
“Innovation comes in a lot of different ways,” he said. “I think the most clear way in baseball is a continued investment into research and development through technology. To innovate ways we think, how we evaluate the game, how we blend different information flows to make the right decisions for the Mets. Specifically at the Major League level, just the in-game strategy, preparation, support staff that maybe falls underneath the coaching staff. There’s ways to be innovative there.”
Roster depth will be key
Building a championship roster means withstanding the 162-game campaign, as injuries and other obstacles are bound to come up. Porter has seen it first hand, which is why he thinks roster depth is of utmost importance.
“Roster depth is important. I think it’s critical to have a real, deep, 40-man roster especially to get through a full 162 and even coming off a shortened season last year could present some new challenges. So I think depth stands out. I think that depth runs through the pitching rotation. Lengthening that out a little bit. The bullpen with the recent May signing is looking deeper. From a position player standout, I think up the middle is very important. I’ve always felt that way. The catcher position, centerfield and defensive versatility as well.
“I think there’s a chance to really diversify and deepen the team. The player pool, the talent pool.”
Not shying away from World Series goal
Owner Steve Cohen said he wants a World Series in Queens in “3-5 years,” and that’s something Porter won’t be shying away from. He likes the expectation.
“I don’t really want to put numbers or timelines on that. I would just say that hearing comments like that motivates it. It really excites me. It shows a strong commitment from ownership who wants to win, who wants to put a winner on the field for the fanbase in New York, and I completely align with that. It excites me. I want those expectations and I really want to provide that kind of atmosphere and situation for the fans in New York.”
What needs to improve right away
Porter was asked what areas of the team need immediate improvement, and while commending the people in that field already, he said player development.
“I think right away probably player development stands out that we’re looking to upgrade. It’s an area we can add some depth.”
The Mets have had some really good drafts in recent years, so making sure those top talents reach their full potential – as well as the current Major League roster – will be key for sustained success.
Learning on the fly
It’s a late hire for most GMs, as the Mets have been working on their offseason plan while also searching for Porter’s position. But he said it’s been good in his first few days to kind of learn on the fly and get acclimated to his role.
“It’s been a learning process the last couple of days. We’re all aligned in the way we see things and they’ve been a great help so far and I’ve bene able to move forward with that group and the decisions we make.”