Former Dodgers All-Star Almost Hired as Padres Next Manager

The Dodgers division rival San Diego Padres hired former St. Louis Cardinals manager Mike Shildt to take over their open position, but it has been reported that they almost hired a former Dodgers (and Padres) All-Star instead.

Padres insider Kevin Acee of the San Diego-Tribune has reported that the team interviewed former Dodgers and Padres first baseman Adrián González for their open managerial position.

“The Padres also interviewed…former Padres first baseman Adrián González.”

Per Kevin Acee of The San Diego Union-Tribune

González ultimately lost out, but it’s interesting to see him be interviewed. It was never reported anywhere, so the Padres must have kept it secret from members of the media until now.

It seems that he was one of the finalists for the job, but San Diego wanted more of an experienced manager to lead their current group. After such a tough year, the Padres likely valued someone who has done it before over a first-time manager.

González was a fan favorite during his time with the Dodgers, making one All-Star team with LA in 2015. Fans remember him as the headline name in their trade with the Boston Red Sox in late August of 2012 that sent former infielder James Loney out of town. LA also picked up Josh Beckett, Nick Punto and Carl Crawford from Boston in the deal.

In his first at-bat as a member of the Dodgers, González hit a three-run home run against the Miami Marlins. From there, he finished the 2012 year with LA and then went on to spend five full seasons with the team.

Ironically, he hit a home run in his final at-bat with the Dodgers, as well. He was traded away after the 2017 season concluded to the Atlanta Braves where they ended up releasing him shortly after.

González seems to be interested in managing in the big leagues at some point, and maybe he'll get interviewed elsewhere next season. He had a strong baseball IQ and could get a chance down the line.

If he's interested in coaching, the Dodgers should absolutely give him a call, though. They could give him an opportunity to work his way up and learn from some of baseball's greatest coaches, which would absolutely help him lock up a managerial job in his future.