Report: Padres Still Seeking Impact Bat After Latest Signings..
The San Diego Padres, largely inactive for most of the offseason, have finally started making moves. Over the past few weeks, the team has signed veteran bats Jason Heyward, Connor Joe, and Gavin Sheets on low-cost deals while also adding Kyle Hart from the KBO as a potential option for the back of the rotation. However, the biggest move came this past Wednesday, when they signed starter Nick Pivetta to a four-year, $55 million contract right before spring training.
The Pivetta signing came as a surprise to many fans who had assumed the Padres would avoid any major spending this offseason. While the other additions may not be flashy, they help address key needs. Still, one major hole remains in the lineup. According to Kevin Acee of The San Diego Union-Tribune, the Padres are determined to add another bat before Opening Day.
Padres Still Looking to Add Another Bat, per Kevin Acee
In his Friday newsletter, Acee provided several updates from spring training in Peoria, Arizona. One of the key takeaways was the plan for Luis Arráez, who is expected to be the team’s full-time first baseman rather than serving as a designated hitter. This decision leaves the Padres without a clear option at DH. While a platoon of Joe and Sheets could be a possibility, Acee noted that San Diego is actively exploring other options through free agency or a trade.
Mike Shildt was asked how he envisions using Jason Heyward and Connor Joe, how he will utilize the DH spot and if Eguy Rosario will be used in the outfield: pic.twitter.com/wHZH9LSgGh
— 97.3 The Fan (@973TheFanSD) February 14, 2025
Given general manager A.J. Preller’s history of making aggressive and unexpected moves, it wouldn’t be surprising to see the Padres make another acquisition soon. Several interesting free-agent hitters remain available, including Justin Turner and J.D. Martinez. Both would provide veteran leadership and some offensive production, though concerns about age and durability linger. Other potential options include Mark Canha, Anthony Rizzo, Rowdy Tellez, and Yuli Gurriel.
Potential Trade Targets
The trade market also offers several intriguing possibilities. Spencer Torkelson, Starling Marte, and Alec Bohm have been linked to trade speculation throughout the offseason. The situation surrounding Dylan Cease remains another factor to watch. Now that the Padres have added Pivetta and Hart, they could shift their focus and use Cease as a trade piece to acquire a bat instead of another pitcher.
However, Acee reported that sources now believe the Padres are almost certain to keep Cease. Jim Bowden of The Athletic agrees. He stated on a Friday appearance on the “Foul Territory” podcast that the Padres “never got an offer they liked” for Cease. That could change if another team steps up and makes a compelling offer. For now, it appears San Diego intends to hold on to him. Preller is a magician, and when it comes to these deals, expect the unexpected.
The Padres never got an offer for Dylan Cease or Michael King that was worth considering, says @JimBowdenGM. pic.twitter.com/wAefn2jrQI
— Foul Territory (@FoulTerritoryTV) February 14, 2025
The Last Word
The Padres’ recent moves, particularly the signing of Pivetta, have helped shift the perception of what had been a frustrating offseason. While some questions remain, the team is shaping up to be a strong contender, featuring a mix of established stars and experienced veterans. With Opening Day approaching, securing another bat remains the top priority. Whether through free agency or a trade, Preller’s history suggests another move could be on the horizon before the season begins.
