Get ready, El Paso, for a thrilling baseball season ahead! The city's beloved baseball team, the El Paso Chihuahuas, has made a significant announcement that will excite fans and sports enthusiasts alike.
Pete Zamora, the esteemed manager, is returning for the 2026 season! This news comes as a welcome surprise to many, as Zamora has been a pivotal figure in the team's success. But here's where it gets even more intriguing... This will be his third season leading the Chihuahuas, and he's no stranger to the Padres' organization, having spent 11 years as a manager or coach within their ranks.
The Chihuahuas are assembling a formidable team for the upcoming season, with a coaching staff that includes seasoned professionals. Scott Mitchell, a veteran pitching coach, will be joined by Jimmy Jones as assistant pitching coach, while Ben Rosenthal takes on the role of hitting coach. The bench coach duties will be shared by Miguel Del Castillo and Morgan Burkhart, both bringing valuable experience to the role. The athletic training team consists of Carlos Olivas and Micah Gerhart, while A.J. Russell returns as the strength coach, and Chris Turrisi will provide performance analysis.
"The Chihuahuas are thrilled to have Pete back for another season," said Brad Taylor, Senior Vice President and General Manager. "We were in the championship race last year, and with Pete and the excellent coaching staff, we aim to build on that success." Taylor also emphasized the team's role in promoting El Paso and their eagerness to kickstart the 2026 season.
Zamora's journey in baseball is quite remarkable. Before his managerial role, he managed the Single-A Lake Elsinore Storm and served as a pitching coach for the Padres for several years. As a player, Zamora was drafted by the Los Angeles Dodgers and went on to pitch for various major league teams, including the Philadelphia Phillies, New York Mets, and even the Arizona Diamondbacks. Notably, he pitched the first-ever perfect game for the Double-A Reading Phillies in 2000.
Scott Mitchell, the pitching coach, has a long history with the Padres, having spent the last four seasons with the Chihuahuas. He also brings experience from his time with the Florida Marlins and the Pittsburgh Pirates. Mitchell's playing career saw him pitch in the Montreal Expos' organization, reaching the Triple-A level.
And this is the part most fans will love: Jimmy Jones, the assistant pitching coach, was once a highly-drafted player himself! He pitched in the major leagues for eight seasons, showcasing his talent with various teams. Jones has been with the Padres' organization for 18 years, coaching at different levels.
Ben Rosenthal, the new hitting coach, joins after a stint with the Boston Red Sox. He has experience in the Astros' minor league system and played college baseball at San Diego State University. Miguel Del Castillo, a former catcher, has been coaching in the Padres' organization for eight years, while Morgan Burkhart returns to the Chihuahuas after serving as their hitting coach previously and spending time with the San Diego major league team.
The 2026 season promises excitement, with the Chihuahuas aiming to build on their recent success. The team's opener is set for March 27, with the home debut on April 7, where they'll take on the Albuquerque Isotopes. Will the Chihuahuas live up to the expectations and bring home the championship? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure—it's going to be a thrilling ride!
What do you think about the Chihuahuas' chances this season? Are you excited to see Zamora back in action? Let us know in the comments, and don't forget to share your predictions for the upcoming baseball season!
