Manager search update: Eduardo Perez added to list of candidates, Mets interview him and others

The rumors and speculation continues to circulate about the Mets’ search for their next manager. Here are some of the latest pieces of information surrounding the process today:

• The team added a sixth name to their list of people under consideration for the job, as reports indicated that the team intended to speak to Eduardo Perez about the open position. The 50-year-old Perez has some major league coaching experience, as he served as the hitting coach for the Marlins from 2011-2012, and then as the Astros’ bench coach in 2013. More recently, he’s worked as an analyst for ESPN.
• Perez’s interview with the club reportedly took place today, as did that of Diamondbacks executive Mike Bell. The team has also apparently already interviewed quality-control coach Luis Rojas for the position.
• One somewhat surprising detail amongst the confirmed list of candidates: aside from Joe Girardi, none of them have any big league managerial experience. Buck Showalter was one experienced name that many expected the Mets to consider, but the club is evidently concerned about the veteran skipper’s propensity for creating problems in his interactions with the front offices of his past teams.
• One rookie managerial prospect who we can cross off the list of potential choices for the job: Phillies player information coordinator Sam Fuld. The former big league outfielder has supposedly declined the opportunity to interview with the team for the role, as he did when the Cubs and Pirates approached him about their openings.