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MLB

San Diego Padres In Talks With AJ Preller On Extension

Alex Neier photo
By Alex Neier · 3 min read
San Diego Padres
Oct 31, 2019; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Padres general manager AJ Preller (left) speaks to the media as manager Jayce Tingler is introduced at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports

In a move that signals a commitment to their high-octane, often polarizing architect, the San Diego Padres are reportedly in talks to lock down President of Baseball Operations A.J. Preller with a multi-year contract extension. Sources indicate the deal, discussed between Preller and team chairman John Seidler, could be finalized within days.

The timing is no accident. The San Diego Padres are looking to get the ink dry by Monday, which happens to be the same day they plan to introduce new manager Craig Stammen. Locking in their front-office leader just as they welcome their new field general sends a clear message of stability and direction for the franchise.

Preller’s current contract runs through the 2026 season, but this extension would put to rest any speculation about his future, especially following a period of reported front-office friction.

Navigating San Diego Padres Front Office Turbulence

Just weeks ago, whispers of tension between Preller and CEO Erik Greupner were making the rounds. The dynamic grew more complex after Greupner himself received an extension in late 2024. Reports suggested that Greupner and special advisor Eric Kutsenda had championed the hiring of former manager Mike Shildt, while Preller’s preference was reportedly Ryan Flaherty.

It’s this kind of internal drama that has come to define the Preller era. His hands-on, micro-managing style has been a frequent point of criticism, contributing to a revolving door in the manager’s office. Yet, you can’t argue with the results he’s put on the field.

The Preller Scorecard: Wins, Postseasons, and Packed Houses

Under Preller’s aggressive leadership, the San Diego Padres have seen a dramatic turnaround. The team has posted five winning records and made four playoff appearances in the last six seasons, a run that includes a trip to the NLCS in 2022. This success has translated directly to the box office, with Petco Park attendance and local TV ratings soaring.

Known as “Trader A.J.,” Preller has never been shy about making a splash. His tenure has been marked by blockbuster acquisitions that have kept the San Diego Padres in contention. He’s built a formidable core around stars like Manny Machado and Fernando Tatis Jr. and has consistently added impact players like Mason Miller and Nick Pivetta through aggressive trades.

While the contract isn’t official yet, Preller has made his intentions clear. “I love San Diego,” he recently stated. “I enjoy the people here… and really enjoy the relationships. I’m looking forward to this offseason, honestly, and the future.”

For the San Diego Padres and their fans, it seems the A.J. Preller show—with all its risks and rewards—is set to continue for the foreseeable future.

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