Craig Stammen Makes Surprising Leap From Nationals Pitcher to Padres Manager

The San Diego Padres have made a major offseason move, naming former Washington Nationals pitcher Craig Stammen as the team's next manager. Known for being a stalwart in the bullpen, Stammen spent more than a decade in Major League Baseball, where he had an extensive stretch with the Nationals and finished his playing career with the Padres.

For San Diego, this is a huge gamble to make this postseason. Bringing in a first-time manager is a hit or miss for every MLB team.

Why the Padres Are Betting on Stammen

Craig Stammen Makes Surprising Leap From Nationals Pitcher to Padres

The Padres' decision to hire Stammen as Mike Shildt's replacement could mean that they are willing to see how he will lead the team to victory, according to the San Diego Union-Tribune.

Stammen's reputation as a mentor and clubhouse leader during his playing career made him an appealing choice, despite lacking coaching or managerial experience.

Sources note that his ability to connect with players across the roster could foster team chemistry and guide San Diego into a new era.

Who is Craig Stammen Before He Became a Padres Manager?

The Nationals selected Stammen in the 12th round of the 2005 MLB Draft, the first since the franchise moved from Montreal. He made his major league debut as a starting pitcher in 2009 and recorded a 5.11 ERA in 19 starts.

Following the team's decision to turn him into a reliever in 2010, Stammen became one of the most consistent pieces in that bullpen, and from 2012 through 2014, he posted an ERA below 3.00 twice in three seasons. Injuries sustained throughout much of the 2015 season led to his eventual free agency and signing with the Padres, where he remained until his retirement in August of 2023.

High-Risk, High-Reward Move

While the Padres' decision is somewhat unorthodox, it mirrors a trend within MLB to give managerial opportunities to former players, Sports Illustrated has observed.

This season alone, former Nationals stars such as Kurt Suzuki and other former players have transitioned into first-time managerial roles to bring insider experience and fresh perspectives.

Critics will be watching closely to see if Stammen can succeed without previous coaching credentials, but the Padres are clearly prioritizing leadership and clubhouse impact over traditional experience.

The pressure is on Stammen, and he needs to prove that his strategy will work next season.