Nationals’ Miguel Cairo Not Retained as Permanent Manager

URGENT UPDATE: The Washington Nationals have announced that interim manager Miguel Cairo will not be named the permanent manager, with significant changes to the coaching staff also underway. This decision comes as the team grapples with six consecutive losing seasons, including a dismal 66-96 record in 2025.

Sources confirm that several key coaches are set to depart, including pitching coach Jim Hickey, hitting coach Darnell Coles, bullpen coach Ricky Bones, first-base coach Gerardo Parra, known for the viral “Baby Shark” anthem, and third-base coach Ricky Gutierrez. The news was first reported by The Washington Post and is confirmed by officials speaking on the condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter.

These sweeping changes follow the recent hiring of Paul Toboni as the Nationals’ new president of baseball operations, who took the stage on October 1, 2025, to outline his vision for the team. Owner Mark Lerner expressed dissatisfaction with the current state of the franchise, 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 had been with the Nationals as bench coach since last year, was a close ally of the fired Dave Martinez. The organization is clearly looking to make drastic changes following the departure of Martinez and former general manager Mike Rizzo in July.

The Nationals have been in a downward spiral since their 2019 World Series victory, and the urgency for a turnaround has never been more pressing. With the team now at the bottom of the National League standings, all eyes are on Toboni as he prepares to reshape the team’s future.

As the Nationals make these pivotal decisions, fans are left wondering who will step into the roles left vacant by Cairo and his staff. The franchise is on the clock to revitalize its performance and restore hope to its loyal supporters.

Stay tuned for more updates as the Nationals finalize their leadership decisions and outline their strategic direction for the upcoming season.