Mets hire Kevin Long as hitting coach

The New York Mets hired Kevin Long as their new hitting coach, the team announced Thursday.

Long previously spent eight seasons as the hitting coach for the Yankees, who led the league in runs scored three times during his tenure.

"Kevin's experience, success and wealth of knowledge make him the perfect fit as our hitting instructor," Mets general manager Sandy Alderson said.

Long will replace Lamar Johnson, who was reassigned within the organization earlier this month.