Report: Theo Epstein Passes on Mets' Head of Baseball Operations Opening

Theo Epstein will not join New York's front office after reportedly meeting with Mets owner Steve Cohen.

Former Cubs and Red Sox executive Theo Epstein will not join the Mets as their head of baseball operations, according to the New York Post's Joel Sherman. 

Epstein reportedly discussed the role with Mets owner Steve Cohen but ultimately passed on the opportunity, per Sherman. Epstein reportedly wants to continue working with MLB as an adviser. Any return to the team level would require a role where Epstein "puts a group together to buy a team and start from the ground floor."

For Epstein the #Mets were not the right fit now because: 1. He wants to be part of the solution as an advisor to MLB to gettng the on-field product more appealing. 2. He wants his next job to be where he puts a group together to buy a team and start from the ground floor.

— Joel Sherman (@Joelsherman1) October 6, 2021

Epstein, 47, is one of the most decorated executives of the 21st century. He was the vice president and general manager of the Red Sox from 2002 to '12, helping deliver Boston its first World Series since 1918. He joined the Cubs as the team president and led Chicago to its first World Series title in 108 years.

The Mets will continue their search for a new head of baseball operations following Epstein's decision, with A's president Billy Beane and Brewers president David Stearns serving as potential candidates, per SNY's Andy Martino. Zack Scott served as the team's interim general manager in 2021 after Jared Porter was fired in January for sending explicit, unsolicited texts to a female reporter.