Mets give Collins two-year extension

Flushing, NY – The New York Mets, as expected, gave manager Terry Collins a two-year contract extension.

Financial terms were not disclosed, but the new deal includes a club option for 2016.

"I'm honored to be able to continue what we have started," said Collins, who just completed his third season as the club's skipper. "The nucleus of young talent in our organization really came to the forefront this year. There is no doubt in my mind that we are headed in the right direction. The won-lost record is not what any of us wanted and that's what we have to change, beginning in 2014."

The Mets were 74-88 for the second straight year in 2013 and have a record of 225-261 under Collins. He was the Mets' minor league field coordinator for a year before taking the job as manager.

"Terry has a great passion for the game," said Mets general manager Sandy Alderson in a statement Monday. "He has helped make our younger players better. He's a great motivator. He has had to overcome a lot this year with injuries and trades. The club played hard for Terry and I think that was obvious for everyone to see. Of course we aren't where we want to be record- wise, but I think we are on the right course. I think Terry deserved the chance to help us turn things around."

The Mets have endured five straight losing seasons and haven't been to the playoffs since winning the NL East in 2006.

Collins, who had previously served as manager for the Houston Astros and Anaheim Angels, owns a career 669-695 record over nine big league seasons.

The Mets also said Collins' entire coaching staff will return for 2014.