New Delhi, Nov. 6 -- The San Diego Padres have hired former relief pitcher Craig Stammen as their next manager. The team announced a three-year contract with Stammen, marking a surprising transition from the bullpen to the dugout for the retired player. Notably, this decision comes just weeks after Mike Shildt retired, citing the "severe toll" of the job.

Craig Stammen, a right-handed reliever, enjoyed a solid 13-year MLB career. Drafted by the Washington Nationals in 2005, he spent his first seven seasons there before signing with the Padres as a free agent in 2017. From 2017 to 2022, Stammen became a reliable arm in San Diego's bullpen, known for his durability and leadership.

He retired in 2023 after a shoulder injury derailed his sp...