Craig Stammen Leads Padres to Postseason in Rookie Manager Season

First-year manager Craig Stammen has guided the San Diego Padres to over 90 wins for the third straight season and their fifth postseason berth in seven years. Padres president A.J. Preller selected Stammen, a former player with no prior coaching experience, for his character, leadership, and flexible approach, including developing a "pitching chaos" plan. Stammen now faces critical Wild Card roster decisions, balancing player health like Gavin Sheets. Despite his successful rookie campaign, it remains uncertain if Stammen will return next season.