Padres bring Back Bud Black and Wil Myers in Key Baseball Operations Roles
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The San Diego Padres are bolstering their baseball operations team with the return of two familiar faces, signaling a renewed focus on player growth and organizational synergy. On Wednesday, the team announced the hiring of Bud Black as senior advisor to baseball operations and Wil Myers as a special assignment coach in player development.
A Proven Leader returns: Bud black’s Second Stint
Bud Black, a highly respected figure in baseball, returns to San Diego after previously managing the Padres for nine seasons, from 2007 to 2015. During his initial tenure, Black established himself as the second-winningest manager in franchise history, trailing only the legendary Bruce Bochy. Following his departure, he spent nine seasons at the helm of the Colorado Rockies before being relieved of his duties early in the 2025 season.
According to a senior official, Black’s new role will be “sort of a wide-ranging thing,” encompassing various aspects of the team’s operations. He expressed his enthusiasm for the chance, stating, “My excitement grew, and my hope that we could get together for me to come back, and… it ended with us shaking hands and getting it done.” Black is eager to collaborate with General Manager A.J. Preller, Assistant GM Josh Stein, manager Craig stammen, and the entire baseball operations team, including player development and scouting.
Wil Myers Transitions to coaching Role
Alongside Black’s return, Wil Myers is embarking on a new chapter with the Padres, transitioning from a beloved player to a special assignment coach focused on player development.Myers spent eight seasons with the Padres,amassing 771 hits and 134 home runs,becoming a fan favourite during both rebuilding phases and the team’s ascent to contention.
Myers’ primary focus will be working with the team’s Minor League hitters, with plans to visit team affiliates monthly. He aims to share his experience and insights, particularly in eliminating unproductive habits in batting practice. “I think every player, when thay’re done, thinks about some things that could have helped them in a time where they were struggling,” Myers explained. “I think it would be cool to be able to express those things to some of the players.”
A Familiar Dynamic Rekindled
The simultaneous return of Black and Myers is particularly noteworthy, given their shared history. Myers played for Black in 2015 and was a key part of Preller’s initial roster overhaul in the 2014-15 offseason – a period that ultimately laid the foundation for the Padres’ most accomplished era, marked by four playoff appearances in the last six seasons.
Black acknowledged the significance of this timing,noting,”What happened over the winter of 2014-15,it just continued.” He expressed his admiration for the organization’s growth, the improvements to Petco Park, and the keen fanbase.
Looking Ahead: A Focus on Development and Championship aspirations
Black also indicated his willingness to serve as a resource for new manager Craig Stammen, offering his experience as a former pitcher and manager. While acknowledging the possibility of returning to a managerial role in the future, Black emphasized his current commitment to the Padres. “You never say never, but I feel good about where
