a thrilling announcement that has Padres fans buzzing with nostalgia and excitement, former San Diego Padres great Garry Templeton is officially returning to the organization—as a Senior Coaching Advisor.
The news broke earlier this morning at a live press conference held at Petco Park, where Padres front office executives, coaching staff, media members, and longtime fans gathered to welcome back one of the most beloved figures in franchise history. Templeton, now 69, received a standing ovation as he walked onto the stage wearing a crisp Padres jersey with his iconic number 1 stitched on the back.
“This is where my heart has always been,” Templeton said during the event. “San Diego gave me a second home and the best years of my career. I’m honored to come back and be part of this team’s future.”
Templeton: A Padres Icon
Garry Templeton, affectionately known to fans as “Tempy,” was a cornerstone of the Padres franchise throughout the 1980s. Acquired in a blockbuster trade from the St. Louis Cardinals in 1981, Templeton became the face of the team’s infield for over a decade, serving as shortstop and team captain.
176 Garry Templeton” Baseball Stock Photos, High-Res Pictures, and Images – Getty Images
He played a key role in leading the Padres to their first World Series appearance in 1984, where they faced off against the Detroit Tigers. Known for his smooth fielding, base-running, and leadership, Templeton remains one of the most respected players in team history. His No. 1 was retired by the Padres, and he was inducted into the San Diego Padres Hall of Fame in 2015.
A New Chapter: Guiding the Next Generation
In his new role as Senior Coaching Advisor, Templeton will work closely with the Padres’ coaching staff to support player development, especially focusing on the infield and base-running techniques that made him a standout. While he won’t be in the dugout for every game, he will have a strong presence during spring training, in the clubhouse, and at the team’s minor league affiliates.
General Manager A.J. Preller expressed enthusiasm about Templeton’s return.
“Garry Templeton brings not just experience, but a deep love for the game and this city,” Preller said. “His leadership, knowledge of the game, and his connection to San Diego are exactly what we want our players to embrace.”
Reactions from Around the League
Current and former Padres players shared their excitement online and in interviews following the announcement. Padres star shortstop Xander Bogaerts said, “I’ve watched Templeton’s highlights growing up, and I’m beyond excited to learn from a guy who played the game the right way.”
Outfielder Fernando Tatis Jr. added, “This is huge. He’s a legend here and we’re lucky to have him back in the clubhouse.”
Even across the league, Templeton’s return has drawn admiration. Former rival and Hall of Famer Ozzie Smith, who was once part of the historic trade that brought Templeton to San Diego, commented, “It’s great to see Garry back where he belongs. He’s one of the game’s true professionals.”
Padres Eye the Postseason
Templeton’s return comes at a pivotal time. The Padres are once again in the thick of the playoff hunt, led by a powerful lineup and a maturing pitching staff. The addition of a respected voice like Templeton’s to the coaching team could help push the club over the hump as they chase their first World Series title.
For Templeton, it’s all about giving back.
“I’ve been where these guys are now,” he said. “They have the talent and the hunger. My job is just to help them stay focused, play smart, and believe in each other.”
With his legacy already cemented in Padres history, Garry Templeton’s return brings hope, leadership, and a touch of old-school swagger back to Petco Park. For the city of San Diego and Padres Nation, it feels like a homecoming long overdue.
Welcome back, Tempy. San Diego missed you.