Despite falling one game short of the playoffs for the second year in a row, a team source said the Mets will lift the interim tag on manager Jerry Manuel. A popular figure in the clubhouse, Manuel (pictured) went 55-38 after replacing the fired Willie Randolph on June 17. A formal announcement is expected by GM Omar Minaya no later than Tuesday. “Jerry did a very good job in a tough situation, overcoming injuries to [John] Maine and Billy [Wagner],” Minaya said after today’s 4-2 loss to the Marlins ended the Mets’ season. “I just talked to Jerry and told him I will sit down with ownership tomorrow and give my recommendation. But I was very pleased with the job he did.” Owner Fred Wilpon also strongly endorsed Manuel while talking with reporters during today’s game.