The Padres have a lot of work to do before spring training begins, especially with regard to their pitching staff. President of Baseball Operations A.J. Preller acknowledged that the team’s biggest needs are in the areas of starting pitching and the bullpen. With only two solid starting pitchers and a handful of dependable relievers, the Padres have a significant challenge ahead of them.
In terms of hitting, Preller believes that the Padres have room for improvement. He noted that the team’s best hitters underperformed last season and anticipates that they will return to form in the upcoming season. However, there are still areas of need, such as improving the depth of the lineup and bench.
The Padres also have prospects and players who are being valued by other teams, which gives them options and flexibility in addressing their needs. Additionally, the team needs to consider their budget, as they aim to trim their payroll to comply with MLB’s debt ratio limits.
Speculation surrounds a potential trade involving Juan Soto, one of MLB’s best offensive performers. Preller has acknowledged that the team has received numerous inquiries about Soto, and a trade may be dependent on other players’ free-agent signings. However, the Padres are open to different possibilities and are considering a range of options to address their needs.
