Wally Backman, the 66‑year‑old former New York Mets star, has been named manager of the Staten Island FerryHawks, an independent Atlantic League franchise that has struggled to find its footing in its first season.
A New Era for the FerryHawks
Backman, who previously steered the New Britain Bees and the Long Island Ducks in the same league, says his priority is simple: winning and hard work. He has made it clear that he has no designs on returning to the Mets, choosing instead to focus on rebuilding the FerryHawks from the ground up.
John Catsimatidis, the team’s chairman, has pledged to upgrade the fan experience, promising more engaging activities and a stronger community presence as the club looks to turn its 8‑40 start into a competitive second half that begins on July 3.
The upcoming in‑season tryout on June 23 will give aspiring players a chance to catch the eye of Backman, who has already spoken with four former major leaguers about joining the roster. His first home game is scheduled for June 24, marking the start of what he hopes will be a resurgence for the franchise.
Backman’s appointment comes at a time when the Atlantic League is seeing increased attention, and his reputation as a fierce competitor adds a new narrative to the league’s story. Fans in Staten Island are eager to see whether his proven track record can translate into tangible wins on the field.