Overview
- Padres beat reporter Kevin Acee says San Diego conducted a second, in-person interview with Albert Pujols on Tuesday.
- The Padres’ search has narrowed to finalists Pujols, pitching coach Ruben Niebla, and bench coach Brian Esposito, with no hire announced.
- The opening follows Mike Shildt’s retirement after the season, ending his two-year tenure in San Diego.
- Pujols previously interviewed for the Angels’ vacancy before Los Angeles chose first-time manager Kurt Suzuki.
- The three-time MVP remains a special assistant with the Angels and has no prior Major League managerial experience.