Machado Calls for Padres to Extend GM Preller After Castellanos Signing

Padres star praises team's offseason moves, including landing Castellanos at a discount.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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San Diego Padres superstar Manny Machado has called for the team to extend general manager A.J. Preller after the Padres signed outfielder Nick Castellanos, Machado's childhood friend, to a team-friendly deal this offseason. Machado praised Preller for "getting a $20 million player for pennies on the dollar" and said the GM deserves an extension for his savvy offseason moves.

Why it matters

The Padres have been more measured in their spending compared to some of the league's other top teams this offseason, but they've still managed to add key pieces like Castellanos at discounted rates. Machado's public endorsement of Preller's work could strengthen the GM's position within the organization.

The details

Castellanos, a 31-year-old outfielder, signed a 3-year, $45 million contract with the Padres this offseason. Machado, who has known Castellanos since they were kids growing up in Miami, praised the signing as a major coup for the Padres and their front office.

  • The Padres signed Castellanos in February 2026.

The players

Manny Machado

A superstar infielder for the San Diego Padres.

A.J. Preller

The general manager of the San Diego Padres.

Nick Castellanos

A 31-year-old outfielder who signed with the Padres this offseason.

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What they’re saying

“Manny Machado says Padres GM AJ Preller deserves an extension for 'getting a $20 million player for pennies on the dollar,'”

— Manny Machado (Sporting News)

The takeaway

The Padres have been strategic in their offseason moves, adding key pieces like Castellanos at discounted rates, and Machado's public endorsement of GM Preller's work could strengthen the team's front office leadership.