Mets Expected to Lose First Base Coach Antoan Richardson Amid Staff Overhaul

Antoan Richardson, the New York Mets' first base coach credited with significantly improving the team's base running in 2025, is expected to leave the organization after failing to reach a new contract agreement. Richardson, who joined the Mets in 2024 from the San Francisco Giants, helped turn Juan Soto into a leading base stealer with a career-high 38 stolen bases and contributed to the Mets achieving an 89% success rate on stolen base attempts. Despite the Mets' strong desire to retain him and efforts made by the team, Richardson appears to be exploring opportunities elsewhere, possibly including a return to the New York Yankees, where he previously played and coached. His departure adds to a broader coaching staff overhaul for the Mets, who have already replaced multiple coaches following a disappointing 2025 season. Richardson's extensive experience, including roles as an outfield and baserunning instructor and his time with both the Giants and Mets, makes him a sought-after candidate in a league with many teams undergoing managerial changes. The Mets now face the challenge of filling another key coaching position as they continue to rebuild their staff for the upcoming season.