Jerry Manuel now has a second chance to prove that he can lead a ball club to the promise land. It seems like many forgot about him after his five years in Chicago. The stories about him losing the club are true, I confirmed it through people I know, but that was a long time ago in the world of Jerry Manuel.

I wrote on Friday why its important for Manuel’s detractors to look past simple in game strategy. Managing is not just between innings one through nine, its a 24 hour job. Dealing with stakeholders, communicating with players, and handing the pressure of the big city have all been his strengths to date. However, the honeymoon period is over and now Jerry Manuel needs to show that he can be the leader that will bring this team to the next level.

We have seen managers fail elsewhere before they became a success in New York. Joe Torre is the most recent, and high profile, example of how quickly things can turn around. During Saturday’s conference call Manuel talked about teaching, offensive philosophy (watch out Hojo), and leadership. There was no silly talk about breaking up the core, but rather a look towards the future.

It’s Omar Minaya’s responsibility to bring in the players that will prevent some of the strange in game strategy that become a neccessity during Manuel’s half season on the job. A well constructed bullpen, like the team had in 2006, will prevent fans from seeing 7 pitchers and 4 hour games. Having the right mindset and offensive approach from day one of spring training will allow him to utilize the hit and run.

I have seen more failures manage clubs in this city then successes. For every Pat Riley, Joe Torre, Bill Parcells, and Davey Johnson there was a Jeff Torborg or Ray Handley undoing their great work. If anything, watching Isiah Thomas and the Knicks shows that you need a consistent philosophy in the organization from top to bottom. Having Jerry Manuel at the helm ensures that Omar and his “inner circle” (i.e. Bernazard) are either on board or get out of the way. Willie might not have been Omar’s first choice, but Manuel better be that guy. Failure could mean long term unemployment for both of these men.

I believe Jerry Manuel will go down as a great Mets manager, much like Bobby Valentine. Manuel, just like Valentine, had his detractors coming in, but it seems like he is intent on doing things his way. The stage is set Jerry now all you have to do is the hard part: perform.

Tags: Jerry Manuel, Joe Torre, New York Mets