San Diego Padres to interview Mike Shildt

A meeting between the San Diego Padres and former Cardinals’ manager Mike Shildt made sense from the beginning. Since he was surprisingly let go by St. Louis, it was a matter of time before he appeared on the Padres’ radar for an interview. Indeed, the Padres showed their interest almost immediately, looking into the circumstances surrounding his being removed as the Cardinals’ manager.

They appear to be satisfied with whatever their investigation turned up. According to reports, Shildt will be interviewing for the Padres’ vacant managerial opening this weekend.

San Diego Padres may have their manager soon

Despite just three and a half seasons in St. Louis, Shildt put together an impressive resume. He won at least 90 games twice, reaching the postseason in all three of his full major league seasons. He was not only able to navigate the Cardinals’ weaknesses, but handled a roster with an interesting mix of stars and young players.

That type of resume should be exactly what the Padres are looking for. They need someone who has managerial experience, especially in the postseason. They need someone who has experience with both superstars and young players, and an ability to bring out the best in both. And they need someone without an ego, someone who will be content to fade into the background and let the players be themselves.

Shildt is exactly that type of manager. While there may be other candidates who fit that criteria, particularly Ron Washington in Atlanta, the Padres do not seem to be willing to wait around to make their move. Having Shildt literally fall unexpectedly into their lap makes this appear to be a perfect match.

He is not the only candidate. The Padres have reportedly inquired about a host of other possibilities, including a former player working as a college coach, several former players currently on major league coaching staffs, and a former player working in television. Experience may not be a dealbreaker to GM A.J. Preller.

However, it absolutely should be. The Padres have a talented roster that is designed to win and win now. They need a manager that knows how to do just that. The best option for that manager, at least right now, is Mike Shildt.

The San Diego Padres are set to interview Mike Shildt this weekend. It may not be much longer before he has a new job.