Gilbert Gómez: LIDOM Key in Rise to Mets Coach, Acknowledges Success

Santo Domingo – Tigres del Licey manager Gilbert Gómez has highlighted the importance of the Dominican Republic’s autumn-winter baseball league in his preparation to assume the role of first base and outfield coach for the New York Mets in Major League Baseball. Gómez, 33 years old, expressed his gratitude to God, his family, and the New York organization for the trust placed in him. He emphasized that the experience gained in winter baseball has been crucial for his professional advancement.

The winter league has been the platform that has taught me the most and prepared me to be where God has me right now, which is in the Major Leagues.

Gilbert Gómez

Advancement in Multiple Roles

Known for his handling of advanced analytics and statistics, Gómez managed the Brooklyn Cyclones this year, the Mets’ advanced Class A affiliate, achieving the South Atlantic League championship, their first title since entering that circuit and the third in the franchise’s history. Gómez recalled that his career in the organization began at age 16, when he was signed as a professional player. After seven seasons and reaching Double-A, he dedicated himself to development as a coach in 2018.

The Mets have given me the opportunity to keep growing, doing different roles… I started as a batting coach in the Summer League and since then I have held several positions within the organization.

Gilbert Gómez

An unforgettable moment

Gómez reported that he received the news of his promotion through a call from the Mets manager, Carlos Mendoza, a moment he described as unforgettable. “You’re going to be with me here. Congratulations, you earned the position; we’re not giving it to you, you’ve earned it,” Gómez recalled Mendoza telling him. The call surprised him as he entered the Quisqueya Juan Marichal Stadium, where he shared the news with his wife.

Rising Career

In 2025, Gómez was the manager of the Breakout Game during the MLB preseason, facing Héctor Borg, also part of the Licey coaching staff. His experience includes roles as a batting coach and third base coach in the Dominican selection that won the bronze medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. “Every day is a new scenario. But this free day is a time to reflect on what one has been able to do and on the people who have contributed to make this possible,” he concluded.