Padres coach Oswaldo Pirela released from ICE custody but faces deportation

Oswaldo Pirela, a 34-year-old minor-league coach with the San Diego Padres, was released from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody on August 26, 2026. Pirela was detained on August 16, 2026, at El Paso International Airport while traveling to Arizona. Although he is no longer in custody, he faces ongoing deportation proceedings. His family disputes the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) stance on his immigration status, claiming he had legally binding work permits and disputes his status as having expired. The Padres have confirmed his release and expressed support, but they will not comment further on the situation.

• 2:28 PMYahoo Sports — Padres coach held by ICE in Texas is released. But he's not in the clear.