As the MLB trade deadline nears, the San Diego Padres are in a tough spot. They want to make a big move to boost their playoff chances, but their farm system doesn’t have the high-end prospects other teams are asking for. That’s forcing the front office to think outside the box.
According to Dennis Lin of The Athletic, while the Padres have some star players, there are still big holes in the roster. So instead of making straightforward trades, the team may need to get “creative” to land the talent they need.
One way they could do that? Three-team trades. For example, if they want to go after someone like Boston’s Jarren Duran, but the Red Sox don’t like what San Diego has to offer, the Padres could bring in a third team to make the trade work. It’s more complicated, but it could be their best shot at landing a top-tier player.
Another option is to buy and sell in the same transaction. The Padres have several players on expiring contracts, like Dylan Cease, Robert Suarez, and Michael King, who could be traded to bring back players that fill current gaps. Even someone like Jake Cronenworth, who’s under contract beyond 2025, could be used as a trade chip if it helps them land a strong left fielder or catcher.San Diego Padresardes
Basically, Padres GM A.J. Preller has a history of bold, unexpected moves, and that’s likely what it’ll take this time too. With the Padres barely holding onto a playoff spot (just half a game ahead of the Giants), they can’t afford to stay quiet.