Awards and Appreciation, Beyond the Badge, Inside CDCR Video

San Diego Padres show RJD staff appreciation

The San Diego Padres players, along with their coaching staff, recently gathered with personnel at the Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility (RJD).

The baseball season may have ended, but the San Diego Padres are still making waves, stopping by the RJ Donovan (RJD) Correctional Facility Staff Appreciation Day.

Pitchers Joe Musgrove and Jeremiah Estrada, along with pitching coach Ruben Niebla, provided an exciting and uplifting experience. Their surprise visit added something special to the RJD Staff Appreciation Day held Nov. 20.

Watch the video (story continues below):

“We have a strong community of Padres fans here.”

Lt. Adam Garvey, RJD public information officer

These players made a lasting impression by signing hundreds of autographs and taking memorable photos with the dedicated RJD staff. Their visit left everyone smiling and energized, proving the power of community connection.

“They wanted to come and show support for all the correctional staff who work here,” said Lt. Adam Garvey, RJD’s public information officer. “We have a strong community of Padres fans here, including many season ticket holders who appreciate the team.”

The players took the time to tour various yards, offices, and departments, actively engaging with employees.

“It’s a wonderful feeling to see everyone around here so happy,” added Correctional Officer Noreen Soto.

Even some Dodgers fans joined in to greet the Padres, showcasing the unity and respect fostered by the exceptional work of the RJD staff.

“A heartfelt thank you to the Padres for making such a memorable visit and to the correctional staff for their unwavering commitment,” said organizers. “Your efforts make a significant difference in our community.”

Story by Pedro Calderón Michel
Deputy Press Secretary
Office of Public and Employee Communications

See more awards and appreciation stories.

Follow CDCR on YouTubeFacebookX (formerly Twitter). Listen to the CDCR Unlocked podcast.

Related content

Avenal State Prison (ASP) group photo of staff with 25-plus years of service to the department.

ASP honors staff with 25 years of service

Avenal State Prison (ASP) recently honored 18 dedicated staff who reached the extraordinary milestone of 25-plus years of CDCR service.…

CPOST Impact Awards video still

Watch: CPOST 2025 Impact Award ceremony

In mid-December, CDCR’s Commission on Correctional Peace Officer Standards and Training (CPOST) honored employees at the 2025 Impact Award ceremony.…

Nominees and honorees at the CPOST Impact Award ceremony held Dec. 11 in Sacramento.

CPOST honors employees with Impact Award

CDCR’s Commission on Correctional Peace Officer Standards and Training (CPOST) honored employees at the CPOST second Impact Award ceremony. During…

Avenal State Prison health care leaders thank the incarcerated-person advisory council members for their help bridging the gap between staff and the incarcerated population.

ASP health care leaders thank advisory council

Avenal State Prison (ASP) hosted an appreciation lunch to honor the vital contributions of the incarcerated-person advisory council (IAC). The…

Secretary Jeff Macomber, reflecting on 2025

Watch: Secretary Macomber looks back on 2025

CDCR’s Secretary Jeff Macomber reflects on 2025, examining the challenges, losses, and accomplishments the department has faced. Watch the Secretary’s…

A child receives a gift from Santa thanks to Wasco State Prison-Reception Center.

Staff, incarcerated get into holiday spirit

Across California, staff and the incarcerated population are getting into the holiday spirit through toy drives, food-sale fundraisers, building parade…