Mets replacing Manager Manuel, GM Minaya

NEW YORK, Oct. 4 (UPI) -- Manager Jerry Manuel and General Manager Omar Minaya were relieved of their duties Monday by the New York Mets.

The Mets finished the season Sunday with a 2-1 loss to the Washington Nationals that dropped New York to 79-83 on the year and a fourth-place finish in the National Least East.

"We are extremely disappointed in this year's results and the failures of the past four seasons," said Mets Chief Operating Officer Jeff Wilpon. "We need to hire a new general manager with a fresh perspective who will transform this club into a winner that we want and our fans deserve."

Minaya had been general manager since 2005 and the team had winning records each of his first four seasons. He hired Manuel to take over the field operations for the team in June 2008.

That year the Mets ended up one game out of the playoff race. Last year injuries caused the team to stagger to a 70-92 record. Still, better things were expected from New York in 2010 but didn't materialize.

Mets Assistant General Manager John Ricco will take over the team's baseball operations during the search for a new general manager. After that position is filled, New York will look to hire a new manager.

The Mets didn't pick up Manuel's option and let Minaya go with two years left on his contract. Wilpon expressed appreciation for the effort the two men had made.

"Changes like these are never easy, especially when you are dealing with people you like and respect," he said.

Minaya will have the option of staying with the club but his role would be determined by the new general manager.