Buck Showalter returns to MLB Network as analyst after Mets split

Buck Showalter is back on MLB Network. 

The former Mets manager is rejoining the television network he called home during the 2020 and 2021 seasons. 

Showalter will serve as a studio analyst starting next month and working at MLB Network was his last job before taking over as manager of the Mets ahead of the 2022 season. 

“We loved having Buck with us a couple years ago given his on-field expertise and years of baseball knowledge,” MLB Network Senior Vice President of Production Marc Caiafa said in a statement. “Having gone up against the new faces and stars of our game, and managing under the new on-field rules, Buck will only make our content stronger this season.”

Showalter had also worked two stints as an analyst on ESPN’s “Baseball Tonight” and worked on YES Network. 

“I enjoyed my time at MLB Network with people I know and respect, so when this opportunity came up, I couldn’t say no,” Showalter said in a press release. “There are many ways to analyze baseball, and I appreciate the different perspectives that come with working at the network. We all bring what we bring and it’s very entertaining. The place is filled with smart, passionate people, who want to teach and grow the game, so I’m excited to be back on the team.”

Showalter spent two seasons managing the Amazin’s and led the club to a 101-61 record his first year in Queens, which included Manager of the Year honors and a shortlived trip to the postseason. 

The Mets 2023 season didn’t go as anyone had anticipated with the team going 75-87 and Showalter announced before the team’s final game of the year that he would not be bought back next season.

Showalter had been one of the favorites to land the gig managing the Angels but lost out to Ron Washington for the job.