An insider reveals Shildt's alleged reluctance to play Luis Campusano, hinting at front office conflict and missed opportunities for the young catcher.
After Mike Shildt retired as the San Diego Padres manager, plenty of candidates surfaced. In the end, the Padres hired former reliever Craig Stammen in an interesting move.
But, Stammen has a ton of respect around the organization and the clubhouse, so this could be a move that pays off after some questionable runs with both Shildt and Bob Melvin.
With Stammen bringing new energy to the team, it is a big breath of fresh air.
One question that came up was in regards to catcher Luis Campusano, who struggled to playing time with Shildt as the manager.
And, Kyle Glaser and Marty Caswell discussed that on an episode of "Friar Territory," with Caswell even saying Shildt did not want to play Campusano.
"I don't think Mike Shildt wanted to play him," Caswell said. "I don't think he wanted any part of Luis Campusano. I think this is something that wasn't just about Mike Shildt, I think that was also an issue with Bob Melvin."
"I think there was some frustrations with the pitching staff as well," Caswell added. "He [Shildt] made it very clear was the only reason that he [Campusano] was on that team was that it was all AJ Preller's decision."
"So I do think that there was an internal struggle, a back and forth, with Preller and Mike Shildt on Luis Campusano," Caswell added.
Glaser then added that the front office wanted Campusano to play, especially with the struggles of the catchers this past season.
He then added that Shildt pushed back and kept playing Edwin Diaz and Matin Maldonado because they are veterans.
The Padres then acquired Kansas City Royals backup catcher Freddy Fermin at the deadline, putting Campusano even further down the depth chart.
In 2025, Campusano had just 21 at bats with the Padres, but there is a chance Stammen uses him more in the 2026 season.
After all, Campusano has hit well in the minor leagues, and while his skills behind the plate has raised questions, he could play at first base or even as a designated hitter.
With Stammen coming in as the new manager, it seems wise to at least give Campusano a shot at the big league level and see if he can stick on or not.
Only time will tell, but maybe Mike Shildt being out will open the door for more opportunities for the Padres young backstop.