According to Adam Rubin of ESPN, the Mets will probably go outside the organization to replace Wally Backman as manager of their AAA affiliate in Las Vegas, despite having some internal options. Backman, 56, resigned from his managerial position after the 51s posted a 70-74 season in the PCL.

The former second baseman parted ways with the Mets organization to “move on and look for other opportunities with the possibility of a major league coaching position,” according to Sandy Alderson at the end of the season. “We had a lot of players graduate from Las Vegas, and prior to that time Buffalo, to the major leagues. I’m very pleased with the work he did, and I wish him the best of luck.”

Pedro Lopez, who has been the AA Binghamton Mets manager for five seasons is seen as the best internal candidate. Lopez, a former minor league catcher, was interviewed for the Mets bench coach position last offseason.

The interviews to replace him will most likely take place during the Winter Meetings in National Harbor, Maryland next month.