Padres’ AJ Preller Reacts to Shocking Mike Shildt Retirement

Sep 19, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; San Diego Padres manager Mike Shildt (8) looks on from the sidelines before a baseball game between the Chicago White Sox and San Diego Padres at Rate Field. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images | Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

San Diego Padres general manager A.J. Preller issued a statement following manager Mike Shildt's decision to retire.

Read more: Padres’ Mike Shildt Announces Sudden Retirement as Manager

Shildt has been the Padres manager since the beginning of the 2024 season, and led the Friars to the postseason in back-to-back years for the first time since 2005-06.

“We would like to congratulate Mike on a successful career and thank him for his significant contributions to the Padres and the San Diego community over the last four years, including consecutive 90-win seasons and two postseason appearances as manager," Preller's statement reads.

"His dedication and passion for the game of baseball will leave an impact on our organization, and we wish him the best in his next chapter. The search for a new manager of the Padres will begin immediately with the goal of winning a World Series championship in 2026.”

Shildt's shocking decision to step away from baseball comes with two years still on his contract, and leaves the Padres searching for a manager for the third time since 2022. The 57-year-old stated baseball had worn him down during his managerial career, leading him to his decision.

Read more: Mike Shildt Reveals Why He's Retiring as Padres Manager

"The grind of the baseball season has taken a severe toll on me mentally, physically and emotionally,"Shildt's announcement said. "While it has always been about serving others, it's time I take care of myself and exit on my terms.

Through his two seasons with the Padres, Shildt had a managerial record of 183-141. He finished second in the NL West during both of his seasons in charge, making the playoffs through the Wild Card each time.

The Friars exited the postseason in the NLDS in 2024, falling in five games to the Los Angeles Dodgers following a Wild Card series sweep of the Atlanta Braves. They lost another heartbreaking series in 2025, falling to the Chicago Cubs in the Wild Card round.

Shildt left the Padres with a final message, and believes the Friars are on their way to bigger things, even without him.

"To the Friar Faithful, thanks for all the support and keep rocking Petco Park. It's the best home field advantage in Major League Baseball. The team is on its way to that World Series Championship you so deserve."

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