URGENT UPDATE: The San Diego Padres have just announced the hiring of former manager Bud Black and ex-slugger Wil Myers in pivotal roles within the organization. Black will serve as the team’s senior adviser to baseball operations, while Myers takes on the position of special assignment coach focused on player development.
This significant move comes as the Padres aim to bolster their management and coaching staff following a disappointing season. Black, who led the Padres for 8 1/2 seasons from 2007 to 2015, was recognized as the 2010 NL Manager of the Year but could not guide the team to the playoffs during his tenure. He holds the distinction of being the second-winningest manager in franchise history, with a record of 649-713.
After his time with the Padres, Black managed the Colorado Rockies from 2017 until May 2023, when he was dismissed after a challenging start to the season. At 68 years old, he remains a respected figure in baseball, particularly among former pitchers who have transitioned to management roles.
Meanwhile, Wil Myers, who played eight seasons for the Padres, has an impressive career batting average of .254, with 134 home runs and 433 RBIs. Myers was named the 2013 AL Rookie of the Year but has not played since appearing with the Cincinnati Reds in 2023. He never formally retired, indicating his commitment to remaining involved in the sport.
These appointments follow the Padres’ recent hiring of former reliever Craig Stammen as manager, after Mike Shildt stepped down following a tight Wild Card Series loss to the Cubs.
The Padres are clearly in a phase of transformation, and these key hires are expected to provide experienced leadership as the organization looks to improve its performance in the upcoming season. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how these changes will impact the team’s future strategy and player development.
Stay tuned for further updates as the Padres continue to reshape their team dynamics and strive for success in the 2024 MLB season.
