Despite budget constraints, the Padres secured key arms and versatile bats, strategically building for future success. These moves could redefine their 2026 season.
Spring for the San Diego Padres is well underway, with the club already playing its fourth spring training game on Monday. After back-to-back seasons with at least 90 wins, there are once again high expectations for the Friars.
It won't be easy, however, as the offseason was marked by financial restrictions for the team. Without much money to dish out, general manager A.J. Preller had to stick to smaller deals for more under-the-radar players in hopes of improving the squad for the 2026 season.
Bleacher Report’s recent article listed the top three moves of each MLB team this offseason, and the ranking for the Padres went as follows: re-signing right-hander Michael King, signing infielder Sun-Mun Song, and signing infielder/outfielder Miguel Andujar.
King’s return to San Diego was undoubtedly the most crucial piece of the offseason for the Padres. After losing fellow right-hander Dylan Cease in free agency, King’s arm was even more of a necessity. Understandably, the club re-signed him on a $75 million deal.
Though he struggled with injuries, King posted a 3.44 ERA in 15 starts last season. Since becoming a full-time starter upon joining the Padres, King has posted an ERA of 3.10. With the concern regarding San Diego’s starting rotation, King’s return solidifies the Padres as having one of the better top three in baseball.
Song is coming over from Korea, where he recorded a .315/.387/.530 slash line with a .917 OPS in 2025. First-time manager Craig Stammen will have to feel out the lineup and needs of the infield, but at the very least, Song will provide some much-needed depth to a Padres infield that lost two infielders in free agency.
In what was a trend this offseason for the Padres, they signed a solid veteran on a modest deal in Andujar. Andujar spent last season split between the Athletics and the Cincinnati Reds. In his 34 games with the Reds, he recorded a slash line of .359/.400/.544 with a .944 OPS.
He can play in many roles for the Padres, spending significant time in his career in the outfield, infield, and as a designated hitter. He can play wherever they need him while providing above-average value at the plate. With thin lineup depth, Andujar’s signing relieves some of the nerves for Padres fans.