Bruce Bochy was hired to a three-year, $6 million contract to manage the San Francisco Giants. After initial informal talks with the 51-year-old Bochy, general manager Brian Sabean was impressed with Bochy's presence, baseball knowledge and leadership, and felt immediately the candidate was serious and excited about coming to San Francisco. "We're thrilled to get him in uniform after a long process," said Sabean. "As he stepped forward as a leading candidate, it became apparent with his experience and reputation -- not only in the league but in the division -- this is a solid move for the organization." Bochy, who managed the San Diego Padres for 12 years and led the Padres to the World Series in 1998 and to National League West titles in 1996, 1998, 2005 and 2006, felt it was time to move to another challenge with a more high-profile franchise.