SAN DIEGO — San Diego Padres general manager A.J. Preller indicates the team’s offseason remains active, with plans to acquire another starting pitcher and additional veteran hitters in the coming weeks. During his appearance at the annual Padres FanFest at Petco Park on Saturday, Preller expressed optimism about securing a contract extension for himself as well.
Addressing Offseason Quietness
Preller clarified that the Padres’ subdued winter activity stems not from the club’s potential sale or his expiring contract. The team has re-signed right-hander Michael King and added South Korean infielder Sung-mun Song, but Preller anticipates further transactions in February.
“You reach this stage of the offseason and have the chance to sign motivated players who fit our vision, at a value that aligns with their contributions,” Preller stated. “We aim to bring in several key additions over the next couple of weeks to strengthen our lineup.”
Roster Challenges and Departures
The upcoming roster, under new manager Craig Stammen, builds on last season’s 90-win campaign but faces notable losses. Reliable starter Dylan Cease departed for a $210 million agreement with Toronto, while All-Star closer Robert Suarez joined Atlanta on a $45 million deal. Leading hitter Luis Arraez remains an unsigned free agent, and trade acquisition Ryan O’Hearn signed with Pittsburgh. Veteran pitcher Yu Darvish faces a full-season absence due to an elbow injury that may end his career.
Preller, known for bold maneuvers against the dominant Los Angeles Dodgers in the NL West, emphasized that the team operates within its current budget despite ongoing ownership discussions. The family of late owner Peter Seidler revealed in November that they are considering a team sale.
“We evaluate all possibilities entering the offseason, including trades that might adjust payroll,” Preller explained. “Right now, our priority is enhancing the roster. No payroll constraints force our hand; we’re focused on rounding out the team with quality players.”
Contract Update and Pitching Needs
Preller provided no specifics on his contract as he enters the final year since taking over as top executive in 2014. He has yet to negotiate an extension with new chairman John Seidler.
“The timing partly depends on me,” Preller admitted. “My attention stays on building a winner through free agency and trades this time of year. I’ve stayed consistent in pursuing fair, realistic deals, and I expect progress soon.”
The rotation features Nick Pivetta, King, and returning starter Joe Musgrove, with Randy Vasquez vying for a spot. Preller seeks deeper pitching options.
“Securing Michael was a major win, and Joe’s return will impact us on and off the field,” Preller noted. “We’ll continue targeting starting pitching, plus bats at first base, designated hitter, and bench roles in the weeks ahead.”
Boosting Offense for Contention
San Diego aims to increase scoring around stars Fernando Tatis Jr., Manny Machado, and Jackson Merrill. The team managed only five runs in their three-game Wild Card Series defeat to the Chicago Cubs last October, as the Dodgers captured their second consecutive World Series.
Fulfilling Preller’s wishlist poses challenges, though he has succeeded with late-spring additions like Pivetta and Cease in prior years. Tatis Jr., a three-time All-Star, addressed offseason swing adjustments to improve consistency.
“We can elevate our game significantly, and I’m excited for that potential,” Tatis said.
