Padres Extend Contract of GM A.J. Preller

Preller has second-longest tenure among MLB GMs behind Yankees' Brian Cashman

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The San Diego Padres have agreed on a multiyear contract extension with general manager A.J. Preller, who has the second-longest tenure among baseball operations chiefs in the big leagues behind Brian Cashman of the New York Yankees. Preller has presided over the Padres' return to the playoffs in four of the past six seasons after a 13-year drought.

Why it matters

Preller's contract extension signals the Padres' commitment to maintaining stability and continuity in their front office leadership as they aim to build on their recent success and pursue the franchise's first World Series championship.

The details

Under Preller's guidance, the Padres have made high-profile free agent signings like Manny Machado and Xander Bogaerts, executed impactful trades to acquire talents like Fernando Tatis Jr. and Juan Soto, and developed a strong farm system that produced All-Star rookie center fielder Jackson Merrill in 2024. However, Preller was previously suspended for 30 days in 2016 due to an investigation into the handling of medical information in a trade with the Boston Red Sox.

  • Preller was hired as Padres GM in 2014.
  • The Padres have made the playoffs in 4 of the past 6 seasons.
  • The Padres reached the National League Championship Series in 2022.

The players

A.J. Preller

The 48-year-old Padres general manager and president of baseball operations, who has the second-longest tenure among MLB GMs behind the Yankees' Brian Cashman.

Brian Cashman

The New York Yankees' general manager, who has held that position since 1998 and has the longest tenure among MLB GMs.

Manny Machado

A star free agent signed by the Padres under Preller's leadership.

Xander Bogaerts

Another high-profile free agent signed by the Padres under Preller.

Fernando Tatis Jr.

A talented player acquired by the Padres in a trade under Preller's management.

Juan Soto

Another impactful player traded to the Padres during Preller's tenure as GM.

Jackson Merrill

An All-Star rookie center fielder developed through the Padres' farm system under Preller.

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What they’re saying

“Under his guidance, our organization has continued to invest in elite talent at both the major and minor league levels while building a strong baseball operations, scouting and player development group. We are confident he will continue to tirelessly pursue the first World Series championship for San Diego.”

— John Seidler, Padres Chairman (nbcsandiego.com)

What’s next

The Padres will look to build on their recent success and continue pursuing their first World Series title under Preller's continued leadership.

The takeaway

Preller's contract extension demonstrates the Padres' commitment to maintaining stability in their front office as they aim to capitalize on their recent playoff appearances and develop a championship-caliber roster.