Former Associate Manager Says Mike Shildt Hire by the Padres Was a “Got it Right” Decision.
The NL Manager of the Year thinks San Diego has the ideal candidate for the position.
The hiring of new manager Mike Shildt has garnered widespread acclaim for the San Diego Padres. Shildt, a highly respected figure in the baseball community from his time with the St. Louis Cardinals, is viewed as a key figure in steering the Padres away from their tumultuous 2023 season.
Despite the challenges, the Padres maintain a roster rich in star power and anticipate remaining competitive in the upcoming season. While facing a formidable journey within their division, the leadership of Shildt is expected to be instrumental in guiding the team.
Former Padres first base coach and associate manager, Skip Schumaker, now the manager of the Miami Marlins, expresses confidence in Shildt’s suitability for the position. Recalling their time together in Double-A Springfield from 2012 to 2014, Schumaker lauds Shildt’s discipline, extensive knowledge of the game, and unwavering focus on fundamental aspects. He believes Shildt’s adeptness in managing in-game situations will contribute positively to the Padres, emphasizing that the team made the right choice in hiring him.
Shildt, who served as the St. Louis Cardinals’ manager from 2018 to 2021 before joining the Padres, boasts an impressive record with the Cardinals, achieving a 252-199 record and securing postseason appearances in each of his last three seasons. With a deep understanding of baseball, Shildt is poised to lead San Diego towards success.
Expressing his admiration for San Diego, Shildt acknowledges the city’s deserving quest for a championship, although Miami Marlins’ manager Skip Schumaker humorously hopes it won’t happen this year, favoring the Marlins. Despite the friendly banter, Schumaker holds Shildt in high regard.
To overcome their past inconsistencies, the Padres aim to make a strong postseason push under Shildt’s guidance. His leadership is anticipated to address the small mistakes that hindered the team in the previous year, fostering excitement within the Padres organization about the positive impact he will have on the team’s cohesion.
