Franchise Timeline

1968

San Diego is awarded a National League franchise during owners meetings in Chicago. Preston Gomez is named the first Padres manager. The Padres select 30 players in the expansion draft, with Ollie Brown the first choice.

1969

The Padres make their major league debut on April 8 with a 2-1 victory over Houston in front of 23,370 fans at San Diego Stadium.