Padres Aim to Improve Without Revealing Strategy
The San Diego Padres are navigating a competitive landscape as they aim for improvement without disclosing their strategic intentions. Following a busy off-season, they focus on maintaining a robust bullpen while observing rival teams like the Los Angeles Dodgers making significant changes to their roster.
Padres’ Strategy for the Upcoming Season
A.J. Preller, the Padres’ president of baseball operations, remains optimistic about his team’s chances in the National League West. Preller acknowledged the Dodgers’ extensive investment in their bullpen, highlighting their capacity to acquire top players annually.
Market Movements
The winter meetings have sparked considerable activity. Recently, the Dodgers secured free-agent closer Edwin Diaz with a three-year, $69 million deal. This follows their earlier investment in Tanner Scott and Kirby Yates, totaling $154 million across three closers in their pursuit of a stronger bullpen.
- Edwin Diaz – Three years, $69 million
- Tanner Scott – Four years, $72 million
- Kirby Yates – One year, $13 million
This spending surpasses the total payrolls of teams like the Marlins and Pirates, showcasing the Dodgers’ financial strength.
Padres’ Focus on Retaining Strength
Preller emphasized the Padres’ commitment to improving. Despite the pressure from competing teams, including the Dodgers, he stated the team’s primary objective is to enhance their performance. The Padres finished just three games behind the Dodgers last season and reached the NL Division Series in 2024, reinforcing their ambitions.
Key Relievers in Demand
The Padres are fielding inquiries on several core relievers, including:
- Mason Miller
- Adrian Morejón
- Jeremiah Estrada
- David Morgan
Jason Adam, returning from surgery, is also part of this critical group. The team has maintained that they will not trade any significant contributors from their successful bullpen, deemed essential for their playoff pursuits.
Looking Ahead
As the offseason unfolds, the Padres are focused on bolstering their starting rotation without compromising their bullpen’s strength. Preller hinted at possible blockbuster trades but affirmed that any deals would need to align with their broader goals, including keeping star players like Fernando Tatis Jr.
The organization remains proactive, with conversations ranging widely as they evaluate potential trades. Preller’s approach often involves extensive discussions and creative deal-making, although he noted that not all ideas come to fruition.
In conclusion, while the Padres remain aware of the competitive dynamics within the NL West, their focus is squarely on internal improvements and strategic acquisitions. They aim to build a foundation that can lead them to a World Series opportunity.
