San Diego Padres general manager A.J. Preller understands the dynamics of a playoff push. If the MLB Trade Deadline signifies the start of the MLB’s “second season,” then the dog days of summer (July, August and September) provide jubilation for fans and general stress for team executives.
With every pitch, tensions grow and final scores have a deeper meaning. As a result, MLB general managers examine their pre-September 1 decisions, wondering if they did enough. Preller’s Padres are in a fight to keep their National League wild card spot.
San Diego Padres GM A.J. Preller Weighs Options During NL Wild Card Race
Preller sits in a precarious position. Currently tied with the San Francisco Giants in second place, the Padres are 5 1/2 games behind the National League West Division first-place Los Angeles Dodgers. The Cincinnati Reds and St. Louis Cardinals are hot on the heels of the Padres.
Preller has shown no hesitation in taking a chance. In 2022, the Padres made a trade with the Washington Nationals for outfielder Juan Soto. Two players, James Wood (left field) and C.J. Abrams (shortstop), became everyday starters.
Left-handed pitcher MacKenzie Gore, with a 3.09 ERA and NL-leading 129 strikeouts, has evolved into the staff ace. Soto played two seasons in San Diego before Preller traded him to the New York Yankees. Preller spoke to The Athletic’s Dennis Lin regarding where he sees the team before the trade deadline.
“We’ve had years where we’ve been aggressive,” Preller said. “We’ve had years where we stood pat. We’ve had years where we’ve pivoted and dealt for prospects and minor-league players. I think your team kind of tells you where we’re at.
“I think we’re always open-minded,” Preller said. “And I think for right now, it’s looking like we’re hoping to add to the club we have, but we’re always going to be open to what direction we need to go and that makes the most sense for the team for now and the future.”
Under those circumstances, the Padres will look to upgrade their roster. Left field seems like a particular problem spot for Preller. Their options look thin. Trading for Baltimore outfielder Ramon Laureano makes the most sense.
Why? Laureano possesses solid power (nine home runs) and the ability to cover ground in the outfield, along with one of baseball’s strongest, most accurate throwing arms.
Laureano’s seven outfield assists lead the American League. Most importantly, San Diego would not need to deplete its farm system this time. Laureano, 30, has an expiring contract, which lowers the demand for prospects.
With San Diego holding onto a playoff spot right now, making small deals make the most sense. To land a top player requires prospect capital that San Diego does not have. Plus, their roster, outside of Fernando Tatís Jr., doesn’t possess an abundance of stars that need just one more piece.