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Padres Reacts Survey: How would you rate the San Diego offseason to this point?

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Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the MLB. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Padres fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

It has been a quiet offseason around Major League Baseball.

There have been short bursts of news at different points, but for the most part, it has been an unremarkable period for baseball. Could that be about to change after one of the top big-name free agents, Alex Bregman, signed a five-year, $175 million deal with the Chicago Cubs? Let’s hope so because this has been tough to watch.

Fans of the Toronto Blue Jays, Baltimore Orioles and recently the Chicago Cubs have had exciting offseasons – at times. But they have been slow movers as well. The difference is that when these three teams have made moves, either via free agency or trade, they have been headline deals.

The Blue Jays may regret the contract they gave free agent right-hander Dylan Cease when they inked him to a seven-year, $210 million contract at the start of free agency. Cease jumped on the offer and with the other top starters, Framber Valdez and Ranger Suarez, still unsigned, he was smart to do so. Toronto also signed free agent infielder Kazuma Okamoto from Nippon Professional Baseball, and they are said to be in heavy pursuit of free agent outfielder Kyle Tucker.

The Orioles traded pitcher Grayson Rodriguez to the Los Angele Angels for outfielder Taylor Ward early in the offseason. Baltimore signed free agent first baseman Pete Alonso and made another trade with the Tampa Bay Rays to acquire Shane Baz. The Orioles are also considered a favorite to land either Valdez or Suarez.

The Cubs signed Bregman and that came just days after Chicago agreed to a trade with the Miami Marlins to acquire starting pitcher Edward Cabrera for outfield prospect Owen Caissie and a couple lesser-known prospects. Chicago never seemed to be all that interested in bringing Tucker back, but there were rumors that the team was interested in adding free agent outfielder Cody Bellinger. With the Bregman signing that may no longer be the case for the Cubs.

Those are the highlights of the baseball offseason, but the team WE are interested in is the San Diego Padres. They re-signed starting pitcher Michael King and added free agent infielder Sung-Mun Song from the Korean Baseball Organization (KBO) in the same week, but the rest of the offseason moves have hardly been noticed, let alone made headlines. That’s not fair, at this point, every Padres move is a headline because we are starved for activity.

The Padres have signed multiple players to minor league contracts and have signed a few players to the major league roster. But one list clearly outpaces the other.

  • Major League Deals
    • RHP Michael King
    • INF Sung-Mun Song
    • LHP Kyle Hart
    • RHP Ty Adcock
    • RHP Daison Acosta
  • Minor League Deals
    • OF Pablo Reyes
    • OF Albert Fabian
    • RF Carlos Rodriguez
    • CF Jase Bowen
    • RHP Sean Boyle
    • RF Nick Schnell
    • RHP Misael Tamarez
    • RHP Evan Fitterer
    • RHP Nathanael Jacinto
    • RHP Albieris Polanco
    • SS Dawry Guerrero
    • C Blake Hunt
    • RHP Andrew Dalquist
    • RHP Sadrac Franco
    • 1B Nick Solak
    • RHP Triston McKenzie
    • LHP Fernando Sanchez
    • LHP D.J. Snelten
    • 3B Jose Miranda

There has been activity and there have been additions made by the Padres, but San Diego has made only a handful of major league additions. Most of these additions seem to be an effort to replenish a depleted minor league system. That could be the approach this offseason due to the reported financial constraints and a potential sale of the team, but that’s not a lot of fun for fans who have to sit and wait to see if one or more of these players who is signed to a minor league deal makes a push to join the big-league roster. How do you, the Friar Faithful and readers of Gaslamp Ball, feel about the San Diego offseason so far?

It can change any day with just one transaction, but we may have to wait until Spring Training for that to come.
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Source: https://www.gaslampball.com/gaslamp...ou-rate-the-san-diego-offseason-to-this-point
 
Padres set to open new lounge in Gallagher Square

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The San Diego Padres announced a new cocktail lounge and limited menu restaurant will open Friday, Jan. 14 at the former site of City Tacos in the Simon Levi Building. The early 1900s-era building is a restored warehouse on the edge of Gallagher Square and owned by the Padres. Located at 323 7th Ave., adjacent to the Gaslamp Gate of Petco Park, will be a throwback to late 1970s vibe with an interior with velvet drapes and leather booths with mirror accents, vinyl turntables and a disco ball. The limited space will seat 50 people and will open on the 14th as a soft opening with the general public invited to come Jan. 16.

The Diamond Room is a cooperative effort from the Padres and the Patina Group. It will be open from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday, Monday, Thursday and until midnight Friday and Saturday. It will be closed Tuesday and Wednesday. The hours are expected to expand during baseball season as well as when concerts and special events take place at Petco Park or Gallagher Square.

According to the official announcement from Delaware North, the lounge will feature classic cocktails but with a San Diego influence. The list will include the Diamond Margarita, Baxter’s Old Fashioned, a dirty Martini and a Fluffy Garibaldi to total 12 cocktails. There are also two non-alcoholic cocktails, as well as beer and wine on the menu. The foods will include small bites, salads, flatbreads, handheld menu items and a signature menu item that tips the cap to Petco Park (Diamond Dog).

As well as a cocktail lounge, there will be options for private event space use and the lounge will also host mixology classes given by the Patina group.
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Source: https://www.gaslampball.com/san-die...es-set-to-open-new-lounge-in-gallagher-square
 
Bud Black, Wil Myers rejoin the Padres

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On Wednesday, the San Diego Padres announced that former manager Bud Black and former player Wil Myers have both been hired into front office positions within the organization. Black will serve as a senior advisor to baseball operations while Myers will be a special assignment coach in the player development department.

Bud Black served as Padres manager from 2007-2015 and was named National League Manager of the Year in 2010. He went 649-713 during his time as manager of the Padres. Black was fired by president of baseball operations A.J. Preller after taking over as general manager of the team. Black then went to manage the Colorado Rockies from 2016 to May of 2025, when he was let go. Black is the second winningest manager in Padres history next to Bruce Bochy and was the manager in 2015 when Myers began his Padres career after being moved over in a trade with the Tampa Bay Rays. Black was fired by Preller after a 32-33 start to the 2015 season. The Black/Myers crossover was limited to the first two months of that season.

Wil Myers played eight of his 11 major league seasons with the Padres, from 2015-2022, and was an All-Star in 2016. He played first base and the outfield while hitting .254/.330/.451 with 134 homers as a Padre. After playing out his six-year, $83 million contract at the end of 2022, Myers played one more season as a Cincinnati Red and announced his retirement from baseball in December of 2024.

Myers was a fan favorite during his time with the team and has gone down in Padres lore for his last actions after his last home game. After winning a home playoff game versus the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2022, Myers and his wife hit the East Village outside of Petco Park and bought rounds of drinks for fans in a neighboring bar. His actions went viral and that was the last any Padres fan saw of Myers as a Padre.

Most Padres fans will be happy to see two more of their favorite former Padres come back to the team. This follows the move made March of 2025, when the Padres brought Padres Hall of Famer and former Cy Young Award winner, Jake Peavy, back as a special assistant to the CEO. He lives and works full-time elsewhere (analyst on MLB Network) but assists CEO Erik Greupner on special projects and serves as an ambassador for the team.

Bringing former fan favorites back is a great public relations move for the team and also gives fans a chance to interact with them again. Look for some interviews coming up with both as they transition into their new roles.
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Source: https://www.gaslampball.com/san-diego-padres-news/52634/bud-black-and-wil-myers-rejoin-the-padres
 
Good Morning San Diego: Bryan Hoeing, Jackson Merrill look for success in ‘26; Padres have been making moves, but few headlines

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Bryan Hoeing came to the San Diego Padres at the trade deadline in the 2024 season. He was not the focus of the trade as Tanner Scott also joined the Padres in the same deal, but his versatility and potential made him a player not to be overlooked. Cheri Bell of Gaslamp Ball looks at what Hoeing has done during his time in San Diego and what could be instore for the right-hander this season.

Padres News:

  • Jackson Merrill burst onto the MLB scene and captured the fans of San Diego in his rookie season in 2024. However, as much as Merrill and the Friar Faithfull were looking for greater success in 2025, injuries and a prolonged slump resulted in a down season for the centerfielder. Thomas Conroy of Gaslamp Ball looks at what Merrill will have to do this season to give the Padres what they need to be contenders.
  • San Diego has been busy adding to its minor league system this offseason with more than a dozen players signed to minor league deals, but the Padres have not made many moves that directly affect the big-league roster. San Diego has re-signed pitchers Michael King and Kyle Hart, signed relievers Ty Adcock and Daison Acosta and added free agent infielder Sung-Mun Song, but they still have areas of need to address. How would the readers of Gaslamp Ball rate what the Padres have done this offseason?
  • AJ Cassavell of Padres.com identifies Freddy Fermin as the primary catcher for the Padres heading into Spring Training, but it has yet to be determined who will be the backup. San Diego has Luis Campusano and recently added Blake Hunt to compete for the job, but Cassavell also notes the Padres could look to bolster the position throughout free agency or with a trade at some point this offseason.
  • David Morgan had an impressive rookie season out of the bullpen in 2025 and there was some talk that he could be stretched out to become a starter this season. Padres president of baseball operations and general manager A.J. Preller all but said that is not going to happen. Jeff Sanders of the San Diego Union-Tribune looks at Morgan and what he can do for an encore in his second season in the Padres’ bullpen.

Baseball News:

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Source: https://www.gaslampball.com/san-die...dres-have-been-making-moves-but-few-headlines
 
Good Morning San Diego: Former faces return to Padres; Bradgley Rodriguez could start season in San Diego bullpen

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The San Diego Padres are reuniting with two former members of the organization. It was reported Wednesday that former manager Bud Black and former All-Star Wil Myers are joining the front office. Black is going to be a senior advisor to baseball operations and Myers will be a special assignment coach in the player development department according to Cheri Bell of Gaslamp Ball. Black and Myers each had their own levels of success during their previous stints with the Padres and they both return to the organization with the same goal of bringing a World Series title to San Diego.

Padres News:

  • Cheri Bell of Gaslamp Ball also went into detail in her piece about Diamond Room, the Padres’ new cocktail lounge located near Gallagher Square. The establishment has a soft opening Friday and will be open to the public, Saturday.
  • In his ongoing Padres roster review, Jeff Sanders of the San Diego Union-Tribune looks at Bradgley Rodriguez and what he can do during Spring Training to secure a spot in the bullpen to open the 2026 season.
  • Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic included a small bit of information about the Padres in his report, Wednesday. He stated San Diego was another team that was aggressively seeking a trade with the St. Louis Cardinals for Nolan Arenado, adding that had the Padres landed him they would have moved him to first base.
  • Nick Solak and Omar Cruz were signed to minor league deals according to a report from Darragh McDonald of MLB Trade Rumors. Solak was previously reported to have signed with the Padres according to their transactions tab on the team web site, but Cruz appears to be a new signing despite having been with the organization last season.
  • Spring workout dates for all of MLB have been announced. Padres pitchers and catchers report to camp Feb. 11, and the first team workout is Feb. 15. Players competing in the World Baseball Classic will be required to show up earlier than players not competing in the WBC.

Baseball News:

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Source: https://www.gaslampball.com/san-die...iguez-could-start-season-in-san-diego-bullpen
 
It's nice to see Bud Black and Wil Myers coming back to the organization. Myers especially left on such a high note with the fans after that playoff run in 2022 - buying drinks for everyone outside Petco is the kind of thing people remember. Having him work in player development seems like a good fit given how well-liked he was in the clubhouse during his time here.

The offseason has been pretty underwhelming from a headline perspective, but I get it. With the potential sale looming and the financial constraints, the front office probably doesn't have much flexibility right now. Re-signing King was the priority and they got that done. Song from the KBO is an interesting addition that could provide some depth.

The minor league signings are actually more significant than they might appear. Triston McKenzie is a name worth watching if he can stay healthy - the stuff is there. Jose Miranda has big league experience too. Building up the farm system after it got depleted from trades makes sense even if it's not exciting.

I'm more curious to see what happens with the catcher situation. Fermin as the primary guy is fine, but the backup spot being unsettled heading into spring training is something to monitor. Wouldn't mind seeing them make one more move there.

That Diamond Room lounge sounds like a cool addition to the Petco Park area though. Late 70s vibe with a disco ball could be fun on game days.
 
Former Padres manager Bud Black joins front office as advisor…to Craig Stammen?

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The Friar Faithful were caught off guard with the announcement of former San Diego Padres manager Bud Black joining the front office as an advisor. The hire provides an additional voice for Craig Stammen as he prepares to transition from a front office executive to a field manager.

Black’s resume is impressive​


His resume is quite impressive, as Black has managed in the majors for parts of 18 seasons. He served as Padres manager from 2007 to 2015 and was the Colorado Rockies skipper from 2017 to 2025. His time in Denver saw him lead the franchise to back-to-back postseason berths in 2017 and 2018.

Black is the second-winningest manager in Friars history with 649 victories. Heartache is part of his legacy with the franchise, as Black never led the ballclub to a postseason berth.

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Who could forget the Padres losing a one-game Wild Card playoff game against the Rockies in 2007? The Friar Faithful are still waiting for Matt Holliday to touch home plate.

Black’s 2010 team fell apart and squandered a six-and-a-half game lead atop the National League West in August. A small consolation for him was being named NL Manager of the Year in the winter award season.

Along with two managerial stints, he served as Special Assistant to the General Manager for the then-Cleveland Indians from 1995 to 1997 and again in 1999. Black held the same position with the Los Angeles Angels in 2016.

His other on-field positions include serving as the Angels’ pitching coach from 2000 to 2006. His staff played a crucial role in capturing the 2002 World Series title. Black also won 121 games with five different major league franchises during his 15-year playing career.

Black offers becoming a trusted mentor to Stammen​


No one was quite sure what Black’s next career move would be after the Rockies let him go last summer. He could have taken time off and recharged the battery while waiting for a call from an organization about his interest in managing again.

Instead, Black joined the Padres’ front office. Stammen has an opportunity to learn from a man who had some success as a major league manager. His experience will help him navigate through those rough stretches that occur in a baseball season.

The goal is for Black to become another sounding board for Stammen to bounce potential game strategies off of, discuss how to balance a batting order, and address other issues that arise. Given the complexity of the managerial role, he should seek insight from a respected former skipper.

There is no hidden agenda, as Black wants to offer guidance and not apply for his job. Managing egos inside the locker room can be as difficult as the games themselves.

I may be naive, but I’m calling this potential mentorship a friendly conversation between two individuals who have a great passion for baseball.

Stammen has never managed at any professional level, but Black could become an invaluable asset to his development. His baseball journey includes working in different capacities within several organizations.

Black’s vast knowledge will help Stammen make a smooth transition.
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Source: https://www.gaslampball.com/gaslamp...joins-front-office-as-advisorto-craig-stammen
 
Padres sign 3 of the top 100 international prospects

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Joniel Hernandez

The San Diego Padres have a long history of signing top international prospects. Catcher Ethan Salas signed in 2023, and shortstop Leo De Vries signed in 2024. Top reliever Adrian Morejon was a 2016 signee, part of the biggest and most expensive Padres amateur class.

The 2026 signing window opened Jan. 15 and closes on Dec. 15. The Padres have $5.94 million available to them for signing players. The total amount spent so far is not currently publicly known but their two biggest bonuses, $1.4 million to Cuban shortstop Joniel Hernandez and $1 million to Mexican LHP Diego Serna, was a good start.

Both players are ranked in the top 100, per Baseball America, and were joined by Curacao shortstop Timothy Mogen, who signed for $600,00. All three had prior agreements with the organization and the announcements came soon after the opening of the official window.

#31 Hernandez, 16, is a plus-runner with a plus-arm and athleticism. He has good bat speed and could develop above average power. If he doesn’t stick at shortstop, he has the skills to also profile in center field.

#45 Serna, 16, could be the best lefty pitcher in the class. He has a starter profile and is already 6-foot-3 and 205 pounds. He throws a mid-90s fastball, a plus-slider and a changeup with an advanced development due to his extensive experience in Mexico.

#76 Mogen, 17, is a shortstop from Aruba with plus-speed and a plus-arm and could develop power as he fills out his 6-foot-4, 170-pound frame. He has good contact skills and a high baseball IQ.

The other players signed in the first 24 hours include:

RHP Joel Duarte, 17, ($150,000) from Venezuela was training as a shortstop but converted to pitching recently with a plus-arm. At 6-foot-2 and 185 pounds, started with a mid-90s fastball and has topped at 98 mph.

Catcher Jhoneiker Leon is from Venezuela with a strong arm and plus-power as a hitter.

RHP Jordan Perez ($300,000) is a Cuban that has starter tools. He currently shows a low-90s fastball and a good curveball.

LHP Joel Gonzalez is out of Panama and shortstop Osmy Osorio is from Venezuela. There are no current scouting reports for either of these players.

Jeff Sanders of the San Diego Union-Tribune reported the above signings as well, but they are not confirmed by the team.

Expect more players to sign over the next year. All international players must be 16 before they sign and turn 17 by Sept. 1 of the following year. They must all be registered with MLB before signing. All players signed before summer will be part of a group who will start their professional careers as part of the Padres international group that lives and trains at their complex in the Dominican Republic.

The Dominican Summer League is home to several of the Padres top prospects and last year featured No. 9 prospect Deivid Coronil, an infielder who spent his rookie season as part of the DSL Padres Gold team, and No. 17 prospect Jhoan De La Cruz. Cruz, a shortstop and second baseman, spent his rookie season playing alongside Coronil in the Gold team infield.

Some DSL players play more than just their rookie season in the Dominican, but the more advanced players transfer stateside to begin their US careers with Lake Elsinore.
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Source: https://www.gaslampball.com/minors/52677/padres-sign-3-of-the-top-100-international-prospects
 
Padres’ Sung-Mun Song has an oblique strain

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Sung-Mun Song

San Diego Padres infielder Sung-Mun Song is reportedly on his way to Arizona to prepare for the start of Spring Training with his new team. That training will initially be medical care and rehab after it was reported on Yonhap News that Song has an oblique strain after a batting practice session.

Jeeho Yo of the Yonhap News Agency wrote on Jan. 17 that Song went to a clinic in Japan after the injury for extensive treatment and then was scheduled to fly to Arizona. The source for the article reported that there was a minimum of four weeks recovery before Song could resume baseball activities.

Song was in San Diego to sign his four-year, $15 million deal last month and then returned to South Korea to resume his preparation for the 2026 season. Originally on the roster for the Korean World Baseball Classic team, Song will likely now be staying in Arizona with the Padres to prepare for the season.

Padres pitchers and catchers begin workouts on Feb. 11 and will report on Feb. 10 for physicals. Position players begin workouts on Feb. 15 and will most likely be reporting before then for physicals and early work.

The typical recovery time for oblique injuries is based on the severity of the injury. Fernando Tatis Jr. admitted to a mild oblique strain (cramps) that would keep him from considering being involved in the Home Run Derby during the 2025 All-Star game. He never went on the injured list for the issue and that would probably be the most optimistic situation an MLB player can have while experiencing oblique issues.

Padres pitcher Matt Waldron suffered an oblique injury, described as mild, while warming up during a Spring Training game in March of 2025 and was not the same pitcher the Padres knew when he came off the IL in June. He was optioned to Triple-A El Paso soon after and never made it back to San Diego, struggling with the Chihuahuas.

This could be a minor setback to Song’s start with the Padres, or it could prove to be a bigger issue if his recovery is delayed. Four weeks from mid-January would mean an on time start to Spring Training with a probable slower ramp up for him than the healthy players. The beginning of the season might not be affected, but if the injury lingers and Song is not able to start Spring Training with the rest of the team, then he might not be available for Opening Day.

Let’s hope for a positive update during Padres FanFest on Jan. 31. Hopefully his early arrival in Arizona to work with Padres’ training and medical staff will bode well for a quick recovery.
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Source: https://www.gaslampball.com/san-die...95/padres-sung-mun-song-has-an-oblique-strain
 
Padres Reacts Survey Results: San Diego fans disappointed heading into final weeks of offseason

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Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the MLB. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Padres fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

First things first… most, if not all, San Diego Padres fans were happy the team was able to re-sign pitcher Michael King. The problem has been the Padres have not done much since that reunion became official.

San Diego added free agent infielder Sung-Mun Song not long after King, but we learned Saturday he will miss at least four weeks with a strained oblique. The other major league additions for the Padres have been re-signing left-hander Kyle Hart and new additions relievers Ty Adcock and Daison Acosta. All other signings by San Diego this offseason have been minor league deals with some of those invited to Spring Training. Hardly the kind of moves that whip a fanbase into a frenzy.

Recent reports have stated San Diego president of baseball operations and general manager A.J. Preller wants to make moves but is waiting to do so. Speculation is that he is waiting for prices to come down on some free agent targets and/or he is waiting on a trade to come through that will allow the Padres to clear some payroll to create financial flexibility.

As with anything, there is a process to building the roster, but to this point in the offseason the Friar Faithful have been less than thrilled with the moves the team has made. Most fans who took part in the latest Padres Reacts Survey said the offseason has been worse than they expected. Some of that may be due to the sudden resignation of manager Mike Shildt or the news the Seidler family was exploring a potential sale of the club, but the lack of moves and additions to the roster has to be the biggest factor in the way fans feel about the team.

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Over the past week, Padres fans have watched as the Arizona Diamondbacks traded for Nolan Arenado and saw the Los Angeles Dodgers sign free agent Kyle Tucker. The San Francisco Giants, and Dodgers, are rumored to be in trade talks for Milwaukee Brewers ace pitcher Freddy Peralta and the Giants have also been linked to free agent pitcher Framber Valdez. All the movement in the National League West only highlights the lack of movement from San Diego.

Perhaps that changes over the coming weeks, but the start to Spring Training in early February is fast approaching and the Friar Faithful could use a couple of moves to salvage an offseason that has had more bad news than good.
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Source: https://www.gaslampball.com/gaslamp...pointed-heading-into-final-weeks-of-offseason
 
Randy Vasquez needs to continue progression in 2026

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Randy Vasquez has seen a steady increase of work since he started his career with the New York Yankees in 2023. He appeared in 11 games as a rookie and made five starts for the Yankees and finished the season with a record of 2-2. Vasquez closed the season with a 2.87 ERA and allowed 18 walks to 33 strikeouts. The future appeared bright for the right-hander.

The numbers produced by Vasquez caught the eye of San Diego Padres President of Baseball Operations and General Manager A.J. Preller and he was acquired via the Juan Soto trade along with pitchers Michael King, Jhony Brito and Drew Thorpe and catcher Kyle Higashioka.

Vasquez was given an opportunity to start for the Padres in 2024 and had mixed results. He appeared and started in 20 games and finished with a 4-7 record. His innings pitched increased from 37.2 to 98.0 which also led to an increased ERA of 4.87. Vasquez gave up 56 runs with 53 of those being earned and recorded 62 strikeouts and allowed 29 walks.

The thought was that Vasquez would take another step forward in 2025, and he did in terms of overall numbers, but the win/loss record remained relatively the same as he finished 6-7. Vasquez appeared in 28 games and made 26 starts. He threw 133.2 innings and worked to a respectable 3.84 ERA. However, his runs and earned runs shot up and finished at 127 and 122 respectively. Unfortunately for the right-hander, and the Padres, he finished with 78 strikeouts and 52 walks.

Vasquez currently stands as the No. 4 starter in the Padres’ rotation. If he remains in that position as San Diego enters the season, he will be asked to take on a greater role and will have to find greater success. Wins and losses are not solely on the pitcher so it’s tough to judge how well Vasquez is performing on record alone, but walks are solely on the pitcher and Vasquez has complete control over throwing strikes. His fastball velocity increased at the end of last season and there is hope that his increased velocity will increase his confidence and he will challenge more hitters.

With growing numbers in games started and innings pitched, Vasquez has been able to steadily acclimate himself to pitching through a major league season over the past three years. Reports are that Vasquez has been working throughout the offseason and is in better shape at this point in the offseason than he was at this time a year ago. Maybe that is maturity and Vasquez becoming more of a professional or maybe he understands he will be leaned on heavily in 2026 and he is trying to show Preller, manager Craig Stammen and the Padres he is up to the challenge.
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Source: https://www.gaslampball.com/gaslamp...vasquez-needs-to-continue-progression-in-2026
 
Good Morning San Diego: Sung-Mun Song suffers injury; fans not satisfied with Padres’ offseason

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The San Diego Padres have not made many additions to their big league roster this offseason and now one of the additions they did make will miss four weeks with an injury. Korean infielder Sung-Mun Song was signed by the Padres and was expected to compete for an infield utility role that would allow him to move around the infield to spell other infielders. Song was also expected to provide manager Craig Stammen with some roster flexibility and he still might. First, Song will have to recover from an oblique injury that will cause him to miss four weeks. Cheri Bell of Gaslamp Ball also believes this injury will cause him to miss the World Baseball Classic and added that he is already planning on rehabbing with the San Diego medical staff in Arizona.

Padres News:

  • The injury to Song underscored the slow offseason the Padres have had. There have been five players added to the major league roster with one of those being Song. The other major addition was Michael King, but the Friar Faithful have been disappointed in the lack of activity from San Diego.

Baseball News:

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Source: https://www.gaslampball.com/san-die...jury-fans-not-satisfied-with-padres-offseason
 
Oblique injury casts doubt on Sung-Mun Song’s Padres debut

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The San Diego Padres received disheartening news about their top free agent signee, Sung-Mun Song, who suffered an oblique injury that could sideline him for approximately four weeks. The injury occurred during a recent offseason batting practice session.

Oblique muscles are essential to excel in baseball​


Oblique injuries are quite serious, as they impair a player’s ability to swing a bat or throw a baseball. The abdominal muscle is crucial for a hitter to generate maximum bat speed through the strike zone. It allows them to create power between the upper and lower parts of their body.

Healthy, strong internal and external obliques are essential for core functionality. A baseball player needs to be able to rotate their trunk when swinging and throwing. Any level of an oblique strain will impact their ability to make the most basic baseball-related move.

Often, most oblique injuries occur on the dominant side of the player’s body.

Time missed = severity of injury​


The amount of time sidelined is dependent on the severity of the injury. Mild oblique strains will keep a player out of the lineup for two to three weeks. A more severe oblique injury will sideline them for up to eight weeks. The average major leaguer needs between 22 to 27 days to recover from an abdominal injury.

Rehabbing an oblique strain is very challenging, as the injured region cannot be immobilized for too long. Your core muscles, specifically the diaphragm, are essential for breathing. Most athletic trainers will implement a three-stage rehab program to get the player back on the field.

Detailed rehabilitation program​


The rehab program begins with isometric abdominal exercises, which restore core stability while avoiding trunk rotation. Other suggestive activities include side bending, which slowly increases flexibility. Gradually, a player will be able to walk or cycle for short distances.

The next stage is performing basic baseball movements without any discomfort. The rehab exercises become more challenging in stabilizing the abdominal region. Typically, it involves trunk rotations using resistance bands or cables.

The final stage before returning to the club involves mimicking all movements that occur in a game. The workout drills begin with light swings with a fungo bat, advance to hitting off a tee, and conclude with live batting practice sessions.

A throwing program begins with building arm strength with a weighted ball. Before progressing to the next phase, the trainers must determine that there is no discomfort in the abdominal region. If the player comes away with no limitations, they will become eligible to be activated from the injury list.

Not completing their rehabilitation program significantly increases a player’s risk of reinjuring themselves. Rushing back to the lineup does raise the likelihood of aggravating their oblique injury on a check swing or an extended throw.

What is next for Song?​


Establishing a timeline for Song’s recovery from an oblique injury can be tricky until he arrives in Peoria. Song is expected to report to the complex for full squad workouts on Feb. 15. His availability for the World Baseball Classic is unknown at this time. The tournament takes place between March 5 and 17.

The Friars’ training staff will take a cautious approach to what Song can do at the start of Spring Training workouts. The goal is not to re-aggravate his injury.

Do not be surprised if the Padres place Song on the injured list to begin the regular season. It is all about protecting their investment.
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Source: https://www.gaslampball.com/gaslamp...ry-casts-doubt-on-sung-mun-songs-padres-debut
 
The Padres’ unicorn

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Jackson Merrill

When the San Diego Padres drafted Jackson Merrill in the first round of the 2021 MLB draft there was a great story told about the scouting of Merrill by Padres general manager and president of baseball operations A.J. Preller. That story was retold when Merrill signed his contract extension in 2025. Preller, in an attempt not to give away to other scouts his intent, tried to watch Merrill from the bleachers of a football stadium next to where the baseball game was being played. He got caught and then had to try and keep his true intent secret while gracefully talking his way out of the situation.

In the deal Preller made to bring in superstar outfielder Juan Soto, Merrill was intentionally left out. He seemed to be the one “untouchable” in the San Diego system that would not be part of the package.

When Merrill came to Padres Spring Training in February of 2024 he was a shortstop. He had been a shortstop all through his professional and high school career. The Padres had a shortstop, and Xander Bogaerts had been signed to a huge multi-year deal to play that position. At the start of workouts in Peoria, Preller and the Padres staff approached Merrill about learning to play the outfield, initially left field before he eventually settled in center field. He was willing and learned the position on the fly throughout that spring. At the end of Spring Training, Manny Machado and other Padres veterans approached the Padres coaching staff and Preller to lobby on behalf of Merrill to make the opening day roster…. as the centerfielder.

The 2024 season was a massive success for Jackson Merrill, the centerfielder. He played in 156 games with a .292/.326/.500 batting line and a .826 OPS. He hit 24 homers with 90 RBI and finished the season with a 4.4 WAR, a Silver Slugger Award, an All-Star selection and a second place finish to Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes for Rookie the Year.

Preller began trying to sign Merrill to a long-term contract before his breakout rookie season. Although unsuccessful at first, he kept trying. In April of 2025, barely into the new season, the Padres announced a nine-year, $135 million contract extension for Merrill. It included a $10 million signing bonus spread out over four years with $1 million in 2025 and $3 million in 2026, 2027 and 2028 as well as escalators over time and with plate appearances and top five MVP finishes. The Padres have a team option for 2035, and Merrill can play that into a player option. All-in-all, it could be a 10-year deal for $204 million.

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Although the 2025 season was frustrating and injury-filled for Merrill, there is little doubt in most corners of MLB that he will bounce back this season. Going into his age 23 season, Merrill can work to carry the momentum he built at the end of 2025 when he was finally healthy. In his final 158 plate appearances, Merrill hit nine homers and 11 doubles and had a max exit velocity of 110.4 mph. Over his last 30 games, he hit .289/.325/.623 with a .948 OPS.

With just a little bit of luck and a normal Spring Training, Merrill could be the face of this franchise by the end of this season. When MLB Network ranked their best centerfielders for 2025, Merrill ranked second by their analytic assessment and was chosen first by program host, Brian Kenney.

While fans watch the massive contracts being awarded in free agency this offseason, Padres fans need to recognize that we have a one-in-a-million player in Merrill. Carrying five tools and a desire to win as well as leadership qualities and loyalty to his teammates and the city, Merrill can evoke memories of Tony Gwynn for fans.

Gwynn turned down bigger money in free agency, despite the urging of his father, and accepted a below-market deal to stay in San Diego and be a Padre (six-year, $4.6 million contract in 1985 and three-year, $12.25 million contract in 1991). It doesn’t take much imagination to figure out that Merrill could have waited until later in his career to sign an extension and gotten significantly more. Or he could have played out his arbitration years and signed a huge free agent contract. He chose to sign early, stating his desire to play in San Diego for the rest of his career and stating how grateful he was for the faith that Preller and the Padres had in him.

Merrill is a unicorn in modern baseball. While playing for one team for an entire career is rare, there is a chance Padres fans could see that with Merrill. He will be 33 if he plays out the entire contract. There could definitely be much more for him to do after that, but let’s hope that he has great success as a Padre for many years to come and finishes here, in San Diego, as he wishes.

I think Tony Gwynn would approve.
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Source: https://www.gaslampball.com/san-diego-padres-analysis-commentary/52745/the-padres-unicorn
 
Good Morning San Diego: Gavin Sheets could have bigger role in ‘26; Jackson Merrill should be commended for his commitment

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Gavin Sheets was given the opportunity to make the San Diego Padres roster in Spring Training last season, and he took full advantage of it. He quickly become a fan favorite and chants of “Holy Sheets!” could be heard throughout Petco Park during his at-bats. Sheets even earned himself the nickname “Dairy Bonds” thanks some timely and powerful homeruns. Jeff Sanders of the San Diego Union-Tribune looks at what Sheets has done since becoming a member of the Padres and what he can do during the 2026 season to build on the success of last season.

Padres News:

  • Centerfielder Jackson Merrill signed a nine-year extension with the Padres early in the 2025 season. Some baseball pundits thought he sold himself short by excepting what was by all accounts a team-friendly contract, but Cheri Bell of Gaslamp Ball talks about how Merrill wants to be in San Diego, much like Mr. Padre.
  • Thomas Conroy of Gaslamp Ball covers detail about the oblique injury suffered by Sung-Mun Song and provides readers with an idea of what to expect regarding the recovery timeline, rehab process and possible setbacks.
  • AJ Cassavell of Padres.com provides his list of the best Padres players by number, which includes former Cy Young Award winner Jake Peavy with No. 44. Joe Musgrove still has time to change that, but since he wears 44 because of Peavy it may not happen.
  • According to reports, the Padres are one of many teams interested in adding free agent infielder Miguel Andujar to their roster.

Baseball News:

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Source: https://www.gaslampball.com/san-die...errill-should-be-commended-for-his-commitment
 
Good Morning San Diego: Mike Shildt told people close to him in middle of 2025 season he was considering pivot at end of year

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Former San Diego Padres manager Mike Shildt was quoted at length in a story by Chelsea Janes of The Washington Post. Shildt tries to articulate why he walked away from his managerial job in San Diego and why it seemed that he so quickly transitioned into his new role in the Baltimore Orioles organization. Bob Melvin, who held the manager position with the Padres prior to Shildt, talked about how he looked across the field and longed to be in the dugout with the San Francisco Giants and it seems that Shildt was also looking for more as early as the middle of the 2025 season.

Padres News:

  • Randy Vasquez has increased his numbers in each of his first two seasons with the San Diego Padres. He has been used more as a sixth man in the rotation during that time, but free agency and injuries have resulted in Vasquez getting a chance to play a significant role in the Padres’ rotation in 2026. He needs to show manager Craig Stammen and pitching coach Ruben Niebla that he is ready to take earn the spot and handle the challenge that comes from the pressure of being a starter in MLB.

Baseball News:

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Source: https://www.gaslampball.com/san-die...eason-he-was-considering-pivot-at-end-of-year
 
Padres need to upgrade backup catcher position

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The San Diego Padres’ main focus has been revamping the starting rotation this offseason. But the start of Spring Training is less than a month away, and their efforts should turn to upgrading the backup catcher position.

Campusano is not the answer​


Currently, Luis Campusano is the lone option behind starter Freddy Fermin. The Padres have little confidence in him, as Campusano has always been a lazy defender behind the dish, and his minor league hitting prowess has never translated at the major league level.

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But the clock is ticking on Campusano’s time with the organization, as the Friars have no more minor league options remaining for him. So, he either begins the 2026 season on the big league roster, or Campusano must be designated for assignment.

It was not too long ago that he was the top prospect of the Padres’ minor league system. But his production in the majors (0-21 in 2025) has been disappointing. However, it is not impossible to see him reach his potential this season. Late bloomers are a common thread in baseball today.

Who is available on the backup catcher’s market​


With the Friars turning their attention to upgrading the backup catcher position, no one should expect that player to supplant Fermin as the starter. He has been outstanding since the Friars acquired him from the Kansas City Royals at last summer’s trade deadline.

In 42 games with the Brown & Gold, Fermin batted .244 with two home runs and 14 RBI, while quickly becoming a calming presence for the pitching staff. He learned what each pitcher does best and allowed them to succeed in their moment on the mound.

If the Padres add another experienced catcher to the mix, it is because they want to keep Fermin fresh for an entire season. Giving him a lighter workload allows Fermin to remain an effective contributor deep into the dog days of summer. The Friars cannot afford a fall-off in production.

You would expect the organization to bring other backup candidates to Peoria on minor league deals. However, finding a suitable replacement has not been easy. Still, the Friars have been linked to several catchers, notably Christian Vasquez, Reese McGuire, and Gary Sanchez.

Each adds a veteran presence to the clubhouse. Vasquez and McGuire are known as defensive specialists who call a good game. Sanchez may not have the glove, but he does offer a proven power-hitting commodity off the bench.

The front office will not consider top catching prospect Ethan Salas to start the season in the backup role. Injuries have caused him to miss significant time since signing with the Padres. Salas needs more seasoning in the minors before any thought of him receiving a major league promotion.

The Friars need to upgrade their depth at the catcher’s position. However, the market is currently thin, as no one is willing to commit to one another.

However, that could change heading into the final weeks before the start of Spring Training. Expect the Padres to make a move soon.
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Source: https://www.gaslampball.com/gaslamp...adres-need-to-upgrade-backup-catcher-position
 
Padres Reacts Survey: Take your pick of three free agent starters

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Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the MLB. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Padres fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

The worst kept secret of the offseason is the San Diego Padres do not want to add significant money to their payroll. Reports surfaced after Nolan Arenado was traded from the St. Louis Cardinals to the Arizona Diamondbacks the Padres were involved in the trade discussions for the third baseman, but they wanted the Cardinals to pay more of Arenado’s salary. The Diamondbacks will pay him $11 million for the next two seasons.

It was recently reported that San Diego president of baseball operations and general manager A.J. Preller was considering additions to his roster but was not ready to make a move. At the time the thought was Preller was waiting for the asking prices of free agents to drop and/or he needed to trade away some of the money already on the roster to create financial flexibility. We may never know what he was waiting for, but we can speculate.

Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reported earlier this week that some potential free agent pitchers the Padres might target are Lucas Giolito, Nick Martinez or Justin Verlander. An addition of one of those players is not going to send the Friar Faithful into a frenzy, but it may be all we have to look forward to.

Lucas Giolito

Giolito is a 6-6, 245-pound 31-year-old right-hander from Southern California. Maybe he wants to return home and pitch close to family and friends in San Diego. He spent the 2025 season with the Boston Red Sox and pitched in 26 games, finishing with a 10-4 record with a 3.41 ERA over 145.0 innings. Giolito spent the bulk of his major league career with the Chicago White Sox and holds a career 4.30 ERA. It should ne noted that Giolito did not pitch in 2024 because he had surgery to repair his right elbow ulnar collateral ligament in March of that year.

Nick Martinez

Padres fans are very familiar with Martinez, 35, and what he can bring to the rotation. He spent two years in San Diego in 2022 and 2023 before signing with the Cincinnati Reds as a free agent. He spent 2024 and 2025 with the Reds and threw 165.2 innings. He appeared in 40 games and 26 of those were starts. Martinez finished 11-14 with a 4.45 ERA. Preller does not typically bring former players back, unless it’s in a front office or coaching role as we have seen with manager Craig Stammen or developmental coach Wil Myers, but considering the need for pitching he might make an exception with Martinez.

Justin Verlander

Verlander and his career speaks for itself. He is a sure-fire Hall of Famer and despite being 42 years old, he still wants to pitch and keeps getting opportunities. Verlander spent 2025 with the San Francisco Giants and started 29 games. He finished with a 3.85 ERA over 152.0 innings, but his final record of 4-11 was not what you expect from a player of his stature. Of course, wins and losses are not solely on the pitcher, so perhaps a season in San Diego with a solid defense behind him would flip the record.

If we are to believe the reporting of Rosenthal, which I will admit is difficult to do due to his constant praise for the Los Angeles Dodgers and his unconfirmed disdain for the Padres, which one of Giolito, Martinez or Verlander would you, the readers of Gaslamp Ball, want San Diego to sign?

Results of the poll will be published later this week.
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Source: https://www.gaslampball.com/gaslamp...y-take-your-pick-of-three-free-agent-starters
 
Good Morning San Diego: Padres need to solidify backup catcher role; free agent pitching options remain for A.J. Preller

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The San Diego Padres and catcher Luis Campusano may be in the final weeks and months of their relationship. It also could be extended into the season if Campusano can put together a solid showing in Spring Training that earns him a spot on the Padres’ roster. Freddy Fermin will handle the catching duties as the primary catcher in San Diego, but Thomas Conroy of Gaslamp Ball says president of baseball operations and general manager A.J. Preller should look at adding another catcher to the mix to create some depth at the very least or perhaps solidify the backup role.

Padres News:


Baseball News:

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Source: https://www.gaslampball.com/san-die...agent-pitching-options-remain-for-a-j-preller
 
Good Morning San Diego: Jake Cronenworth remains in San Diego, but his role in 2026 is unknown

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Jake Cronenworth has been talked about as a potential trade piece for the past couple of seasons. He has value in that he can play multiple positions and is steady at the plate. For now, Cronenworth is projected to be the second baseman for the San Diego Padres on opening day although that could change in the coming weeks. Jeff Sanders of the San Diego Union-Tribune looks at Cronenworth and what he can bring to the 2026 team as part of his ongoing Padres roster review.

Baseball News:

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Source: https://www.gaslampball.com/san-die...san-diego-could-play-significant-role-in-2026
 
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