Yeah, I'm one of the people that predicted he would flame out in spectacular fashion in the tough NY environment. Wrong again.
I am happy for him.
When he was here (has it really been twenty years ago?), he struck me as a wound-too-tight over manager, and kind of a prick, as well. A friend who played for him in California/Anaheim more-or-less confirmed the assessment. But from what I have read and heard, Collins kept learning as he went along, even changed up his style somewhat. He was kind of a surprise hire when the Mets originally brought him on board, as I recall; but he apparently works well with the younger players, and it is hard to argue with the results.
Plus, his team dick-stomped the Cubs. That gets him extra points, in my book.