In October, Padres general manager A.J. Preller and manager Mike Shildt aligned on a shared priority: retaining the coaching staff for 2024. According to Preller, their shared recognition of the staff’s value made the decision straightforward.
On Friday, the Padres officially announced their largely unchanged 2025 coaching lineup. Ruben Niebla returns as pitching coach under a multiyear deal, and Victor Rodriguez remains hitting coach, having led the franchise’s most productive offense to date. Brian Esposito, previously the game strategy assistant, has been promoted to bench coach.
Shildt expressed enthusiasm about maintaining continuity, emphasizing the importance of staff and player cohesion to building upon their established foundation.
The sole adjustment is the departure of Major League field coordinator Ryan Barba from the coaching staff, though he is expected to stay within the organization in player development. On the pitching side, Niebla will continue to collaborate with bullpen coach Ben Fritz and assistant Peter Summerville.
Niebla, entering his fourth season, has been pivotal to the team’s success, including two playoff appearances and a league-best rotation ERA in 2023. Preller described Niebla as a significant contributor, affirming his long-term role in the organization.
Rodriguez has also solidified his position, overcoming challenges as the hitting coach and guiding the Padres to tie for fifth in offense, with a 111 wRC+, despite playing at pitcher-friendly Petco Park. Assistant hitting coaches Pat O’Sullivan and Mike McCoy will also return, reinforcing the team’s commitment to their effective offensive strategy.
The Padres are clearly focused on stability as they look to build on their success from the previous season.
About The Author
Leave a Reply