Mike Shildt has announced his retirement as manager of the San Diego Padres ahead of the 2026 season. The 57-year-old informed the team on Monday, citing concerns about his health as the primary reason for his decision. This unexpected announcement comes after Shildt led the Padres to consecutive postseason appearances, including a 90-win season in 2025, although the team fell to the Chicago Cubs in the wild-card round.
Shildt’s management tenure was marked by notable achievements. In 2024, he guided the Padres to a 93-69 record and nearly advanced past the Los Angeles Dodgers in the National League Division Series, ultimately losing that series in five games. With Shildt stepping down, the Padres must now identify a successor capable of continuing the team’s competitive trajectory.
Potential Candidates for Padres’ Managerial Position
The Padres have several intriguing options as they begin their search for a new manager. Each candidate brings unique experiences that could benefit the club as it aims to remain a playoff contender.
Ron Washington is one of the most discussed names in connection with the Padres. Washington previously managed the Texas Rangers while current Padres president of baseball operations, A.J. Preller, was part of their front office. This established relationship could facilitate a smooth transition should Washington seek another opportunity after his recent challenges with the Los Angeles Angels.
Another name to consider is Chris Woodward, who has also been associated with the Texas Rangers organization. Although he did not work directly with Preller, Woodward could be a viable candidate for a second managerial stint. His previous tenure with the Rangers from 2019 to 2022 was challenging, as the team was undergoing a significant rebuild. Currently, he serves as the first base coach for the Los Angeles Dodgers, who are vying for consecutive World Series titles.
Scott Servais is another potential candidate who has a long-standing relationship with Preller dating back to their days with the Texas Rangers. After managing the Seattle Mariners for nine years, Servais led the team to a playoff berth in 2022, ending a 20-year postseason drought. However, following a missed playoff opportunity in 2023 and 2024, he was replaced by Dan Wilson, who currently has the Mariners competing in this year’s American League Championship Series. The Padres may find Servais’s familiarity with Preller appealing, despite recent changes in Seattle.
As the Padres embark on this search, the choice of their next manager will be crucial in shaping the franchise’s future. With a talented roster and a competitive spirit, the new leader will need to harness the team’s potential and build on the progress made under Shildt’s stewardship. The Padres’ management will undoubtedly weigh each candidate’s past experiences and relationships within the game as they seek to find the right fit for the upcoming season.