BREAKING: Padres de san diego Chairman John Seidler has sent a message expressing interest in bringing former legend Benito Santiago back to the team as an offensive coordinator assistant, with the goal of aiming for the Super Bowl 2025 championship……. view more

BREAKING: Padres Chairman John Seidler Eyes Benito Santiago for Key Role in 2025 Championship Push

In a surprising and somewhat confusing turn of events, San Diego Padres Chairman John Seidler has reportedly expressed interest in bringing former Padres legend Benito Santiago back into the fold—not as a player, but as an offensive coordinator assistant, in what he called a “bold step toward championship goals for 2025.”

The news came via an internal message leaked early this morning, in which Seidler praised Santiago’s “veteran insight, locker room leadership, and deep roots in San Diego baseball.” While Santiago was a fan favorite and four-time All-Star during his career with the Padres in the late 1980s and early 1990s, the specific role Seidler described—offensive coordinator assistant—has raised eyebrows due to its typical use in football, not baseball.

Baseball or Football Confusion?

The Padres, of course, are a Major League Baseball team, and terms like “offensive coordinator” are traditionally reserved for NFL coaching staffs. This led many to speculate whether Seidler misspoke, was misquoted, or whether the organization is planning some kind of cross-sport initiative—or possibly a promotional stunt.

Still, sources close to the team suggest the intent behind the message was earnest. One insider told reporters:

“Seidler sees Benito as someone who could mentor younger hitters, particularly Latin players, and offer support in refining the team’s offensive approach.”

Benito Santiago: A Legend Returns?

Santiago, now 60, has remained active in baseball circles post-retirement, often working with youth academies and occasionally appearing at Padres alumni events. If officially appointed, his return to the team would mark his first formal role in MLB since retiring in 2005.

Fans have responded with a mixture of excitement and confusion. Social media lit up with posts ranging from celebratory to baffled.

“Super Bowl? Wrong sport, but I love the energy!” one user tweeted.
“Benito Santiago back in San Diego? Let’s goooo!” another added.

What’s Next?

The Padres have not yet released a formal statement, but insiders believe a press conference may be scheduled in the coming days to clarify the nature of Santiago’s role—and Seidler’s championship ambitions. Whether it’s a case of misused terminology or a bigger announcement involving a multi-sport venture, one thing is clear:

San Diego is dreaming big. And Benito Santiago might just be part of that dream again.