Source: Mets interview Bob Geren

ST. LOUIS -- The Mets interviewed Bob Geren Thursday for their bench coach position and the team expects to announce its complete coaching staff by early next week, according to a person familiar with the situation.

Geren and Jim Riggleman appear to be the only two candidates to replace Ken Oberkfell, who was removed as bench coach in a series of staff changes earlier this month. Geren and Riggleman fit the Mets' criteria as former managers who held the job as recently as this past season.

Geren was fired by the Athletics on June 9 and Riggleman resigned from the Nationals two weeks later. The Mets made it clear when the coaching changes were announced that Wally Backman would not be considered for bench coach, probably to spare Terry Collins and the team any additional distractions if things do not go well next season.

Riggleman seems to hold the edge, given his Dodgers connection with Collins and his familiarity with the National League East. The only other coaching spot still open is first-base coach, which was the position held by Mookie Wilson.