Nationals Confirm Miguel Cairo Won’t Return as Manager

URGENT UPDATE: The Washington Nationals have confirmed that interim manager Miguel Cairo will not be appointed to the permanent position, according to a source close to the team. This decision comes as part of a significant coaching overhaul, with several key staff members also being let go.

Sources indicate that pitching coach Jim Hickey, hitting coach Darnell Coles, bullpen coach Ricky Bones, first-base coach Gerardo Parra, and third-base coach Ricky Gutierrez will not return next season. The Washington Post first reported these developments, which reflect the organization’s urgent need for change after consecutive losing seasons.

Just last month, Paul Toboni was introduced as the Nationals’ new president of baseball operations, following the dismissal of both former president and general manager Mike Rizzo and manager Dave Martinez in July. The team has struggled significantly, ending the 2025 season with a dismal record of 66-96, placing them 14th out of 15 teams in the National League.

During a press conference on October 1, 2025, Mark Lerner, the Nationals’ owner, expressed dissatisfaction with the team’s current standings, 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. … Don’t give up on us; we’re going to be there again. Guaranteed.”

Cairo, who has been an integral part of the coaching staff as the bench coach since last year, was a close friend of Martinez. His departure, alongside other coaching staff, indicates a dramatic shift in the Nationals’ strategy as they aim to rebuild after six consecutive losing seasons since their World Series victory in 2019.

What happens next for the Nationals? The organization is expected to actively seek a new manager and coaching staff to revitalize the team ahead of the upcoming season. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely for updates on who will lead this storied franchise back to contention.

Stay tuned for further developments as the Nationals reshape their leadership and strategy for the future. This story is still unfolding, and immediate changes could impact the trajectory of the franchise.