The San Diego Padres have found themselves in the familiar spot of searching for a new manager, as Mike Shildt has decided he will not return next season.
Shildt announced on Monday that he is retiring. The 57-year-old wrote in a letter that he has decided to step down with a “heavy but full heart.” He cited the toll that being a Major League Baseball manager has taken on him.
“The grind of the baseball season has taken a severe toll on me mentally, physically and emotionally,” Shildt wrote. “While it has always been about serving others, it’s time to take care of myself and exit on my terms.”
Mike Shildt's letter as he retires as Padres manager
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Shildt was initially hired by the Padres in a player development role in 2022. He was promoted to manager following the 2023 season when Bob Melvin left to become the manager of the San Francisco Giants. Shildt signed a two-year extension with San Diego after last season and was under contract with the team through 2027.
The Padres won 93 games in Shildt’s first season as manager last year and lost to the Los Angeles Dodgers in the NLDS. They won 90 games this season and lost to the Chicago Cubs in the NL Wild Card. San Diego finished second in the NL West both years.
The 57-year-old Shildt also managed the St. Louis Cardinals for four seasons from 2018-2021. He has a career record of 435-340 in the regular season and 9-14 in the playoffs.
