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In a signature twist of A.J. Preller’s tenure, the Padres promoted special assistant and former reliever Craig Stammen to manager, replacing Mike Shildt, who resigned last month. Stammen, 42 by Opening Day, becomes San Diego’s 24th skipper and the sixth full-time manager under Preller, signing a three-year deal through 2028. Preller has discussed a potential extension with chairman John Seidler, with team sources citing momentum and a possible announcement near Stammen’s formal introduction. Stammen posted a 3.36 ERA over his final six MLB seasons and rejoined the club before the 2024 season as a special assistant in player development.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.