Riggleman, 58, resigned abruptly as manger of the Nationals on June 23 over a contract dispute — he wanted an immediate extension. But Riggleman is exactly what the Mets are looking for in a new bench coach: a former manager with plenty of major-league experience.
Riggleman managed the Padres, Cubs and Mariners (for 90 games in 2008) before Washington, where he seemed to be making serious progress with the Nats this season. They had won 11 of 12 before Riggleman suddenly walked out. Giants manager Bruce Bochy had even planned to have him on his coaching staff for the All-Star Game.
