Padres Seek Roster Upgrades After Early Playoff Exit
The San Diego Padres are entering the offseason with a clear directive after their disappointing loss to the Chicago Cubs in the National League Wild Card round. Despite winning 90 games for the second straight year, the Padres fell short of their World Series aspirations, leading owner John Seidler to label the 2025 campaign a "disappointment."
Roster Holes to Fill
The Padres' offensive struggles were a major factor in their early playoff exit, with key players like Manny Machado, Luis Arraez, and Elias Díaz all underperforming. The catching duo of Díaz and Martín Maldonado was particularly problematic, combining for a dismal .230 batting average and -2.8 WAR.
Aggressive Offseason Ahead
General manager A.J. Preller is expected to be active this offseason, as MLB executives have warned that he is "primed for an aggressive" approach to improving the roster. Preller has a history of making bold moves, and the Padres' early playoff exit could spur him to shake up the team's core.
Potential Roster Moves
One area of focus could be the starting rotation, where the Padres may consider moving reliever Mason Miller into a starting role. The team could also explore trade options for ace Dylan Cease, who had a down year in a contract season.
Padres Sign Taiwanese Prospect
The Padres have already made their first offseason move, signing 18-year-old Taiwanese right-hander Lan-Hong Su to their international amateur class. Su, who idolizes Padres star Yu Darvish, will join the organization's affiliate in the Dominican Summer League.
TL;DR
- The Padres are entering the offseason with a sense of urgency after their early playoff exit in 2025.
- Key offensive players like Manny Machado and Luis Arraez struggled, and the catching duo was a major weakness.
- GM A.J. Preller is expected to be aggressive in his efforts to upgrade the roster, with potential moves involving the starting rotation.
- The Padres have already made their first offseason acquisition, signing 18-year-old Taiwanese prospect Lan-Hong Su.