URGENT UPDATE: The Washington Nationals have officially confirmed that interim manager Miguel Cairo will not be appointed to the permanent role. This announcement comes just days after reports suggested significant changes to the team’s coaching staff.
According to sources speaking to The Associated Press, members of Cairo’s coaching team—including pitching coach Jim Hickey, hitting coach Darnell Coles, and first-base coach Gerardo Parra—are also facing dismissals. The decision follows a disappointing season where the Nationals posted a record of 66-96, ranking 14th out of 15 teams in the National League.
This overhaul is the latest move under new president of baseball operations Paul Toboni, who was introduced on October 1, 2025. During the press conference, Nationals owner Mark Lerner expressed dissatisfaction with the team’s current trajectory, stating, “We’re not happy where we are right now. That’s why we brought in Paul. And we’re going to get back to where we’re supposed to be.”
Cairo, who stepped in for the fired Dave Martinez in July, has been a close associate of Martinez, serving as the bench coach prior to his interim appointment. The changes come less than three months after the team parted ways with both Martinez and former general manager Mike Rizzo.
The Nationals have struggled significantly since their 2019 World Series victory, now facing their sixth consecutive losing season. The imminent changes signal a desperate attempt by the organization to reverse their fortunes as they aim for a turnaround.
What happens next remains critical for the Nationals as they seek a new direction. Fans and analysts will be closely monitoring the team’s upcoming decisions and the potential candidates for the managerial position.
This developing story highlights the urgency for the Nationals to revitalize their roster and coaching staff in hopes of returning to competitive form. Stay tuned for updates as the situation unfolds.
