Mets Dismiss Longtime Pro Director of Scouting Jim D’Aloia
By Mark Powell
Brodie Van Wagenen and the Mets are moving in a surprising direction with their scouting department.
Longtime Mets director of scouting Jim D'Aloia is expected to be relieved of his duties at the end of the season. Under the direction of D'Aloia, the Mets developed the likes of Pete Alonso, Jeff McNeil, Jacob deGrom, Noah Syndergaard and more into stars. Yet, Van Wagenen's long-term focus on analytics and willingness to depart with prospects for immediate talent could very well be at conflict with D'Aloia's mindset. Thus, his departure is necessary.
#Mets dismissing Jim D’Aloia, their director of pro scouting for the past eight seasons, sources tell The Athletic. Will remain with club through end of contact on Oct. 31. D’Aloia was a college teammate of former NYM executive J.P. Ricciardi.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) August 28, 2019
Perhaps the worst move of the Van Wagenen era thus far has been the trade for Robinson Cano and Edwin Diaz, both of whom have failed to live up to the lofty price tag of former No. 6 overall pick Jarred Kelenic. D'Aloia formed a personal connection with Kelenic, believing the 19-year-old was the next big thing in the Mets farm system. When Kelenic was traded, D'Aloia was apparently 'devastated'.
Jarred Kelenic’s 2nd HR of the game, 20th HR of the season & had at exit velocity at 102mph. pic.twitter.com/mNbiyL1mx4
— Mariners Minors (@MiLBMariners) August 24, 2019
This sort of division on important organizational issues--whether warranted or not--isn't healthy for the state of the Mets. While D'Aloia has accomplished much during his tenure in Queens, the relationship has clearly run its course.