The baseball world was stunned this weekend when Mike Shildt, manager of the San Diego Padres, announced his immediate retirement—even though two years remained on his contract. Just nine days after the Padres’ wild-card exit at the hands of the Chicago Cubs, Shildt cited the severe mental, physical, and emotional toll the job had taken on him. His departure marks a sudden end to a tenure that, though short, delivered postseason appearances both years.

In a statement delivered to the San Diego Union-Tribune, Shildt said, “the grind of the baseball season has taken a severe toll on me mentally, physically and emotionally.”

He added, “While it has always been about serving others, it’s time I take care of myself and exit on my terms.” During his two seasons managing San Diego, Shildt led t

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