Sep 28, 2008 9:45 PM EST

The Mets appear likely to bring manager Jerry Manuel back next season even after the team missed the playoffs on the final day of the regular season for the second-straight year.

Manuel took over for Willie Randolph in mid-June, and led New York back into contention after struggling in the early part of the season.

"Jerry did a very good job coming into a very difficult situation," general manager Omar Minaya said. "I was very pleased. ... As far as the manager situation, my preference is to get this done sooner than later."

A person familiar with team management said there's a very good chance Manuel will be brought back next season.

"I hope so," center fielder Carlos Beltran said. "I believe he should be back. He's a great man and he did everything possible."

Via ESPN