Carter climbing managerial ranks in Mets organization

PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. -- Hall of Famer Gary Carter was promoted Monday to manager of the Class-A St. Lucie Mets after managing New York's Gulf Coast League team last year.

An 11-time All-Star catcher, Carter hopes to become a major-league manager.

"The Mets have given me the opportunity, and I'm doing everything I can to get there," Carter said. "If it doesn't happen in a couple years, then fine. If it does happen, it will be a great day."

Carter managed the Gulf Coast Mets to a 37-16 record and the league playoffs.

"I think it's a great opportunity for Gary," Mets general manager Omar Minaya said. "He did a great job with the Gulf Coast team."

Carter replaces Tim Teufel, who managed the St. Lucie Mets for two years. He has left the organization.