Nationals Name Miguel Cairo Interim Manager After GM, Manager Firings

The Washington Nationals have named Miguel Cairo as their interim manager following the firing of Dave Martinez and general manager Mike Rizzo amid a disappointing season. Cairo, a former MLB player with a 17-year career and previous interim managerial experience with the Chicago White Sox, has served as the Nationals' bench coach since 2024 and is seen as a respected leader within the organization. Interim GM Mike DeBartolo emphasized Cairo's strong leadership and energy as crucial to revitalizing the team, which currently stands at 37-53 and faces a sixth consecutive losing season. Cairo's appointment comes just before the MLB Draft, where the Nationals hold the top overall pick, signaling a desire for fresh direction. The Nationals hope Cairo can stabilize the team and possibly earn a permanent managerial role, drawing parallels to other interim managers who have improved struggling clubs. Cairo will make his managerial debut in a series against St. Louis, tasked with reversing the Nationals' fortunes.