The Mets are hiring Red Sox pitching director Justin Willard to fix their struggling rotation.

The New York Mets are reportedly set to hire Boston Red Sox pitching director Justin Willard as their new pitching coach, replacing Jeremy Hefner. Willard, who joined the Red Sox in November 2024 after six years with the Twins and college coaching roles, is known for emphasizing command and high-velocity pitches in the strike zone. His hiring aims to address the Mets’ 2025 pitching issues, including a high walk rate and 18th-ranked ERA despite strong stuff metrics. The move follows a series of front-office departures for the Red Sox, including assistant GM Paul Toboni. Willard’s role will be critical in helping young pitchers like Nolan McLean and Brandon Sproat develop, and in revitalizing Kodai Senga’s performance for 2026.