By mid-June, the outlook for the San Diego Padres was bleak. Following a series loss to the Philadelphia Phillies on June 19, they were nine games behind in the National League West and had dropped 11 of their last 18 games. However, they’ve turned things around, winning eight of their last 11 games since then.
Living in the same division as the Los Angeles Dodgers has been challenging for the Padres, who are currently in second place, 8.5 games behind first with a 46-43 record. However, the Padres benefit from a generally weak National League division. They not only hold the sixth-best record in the NL but are also one of only seven teams with a winning record, securing them the final Wild Card spot.
This period is crucial for making improvements, specifically by adding key players to the roster before the MLB Trade Deadline on July 30.
The Padres began making trades well before the trade deadline this season. In early May, they acquired Luis Arraez from the Miami Marlins, a significant move given his reputation as one of the game’s most reliable hitters. However, this deal came at a cost.
To obtain Arraez, the Padres sent their No. 6, 9, and 13 prospects to Miami, which was a substantial trade package. Additionally, before the Arraez deal, San Diego had traded with the Chicago White Sox for pitcher Dylan Cease, giving up their No. 5, 7, and 8 prospects. Fortunately, with one of the top farm systems (No. 4), the team was able to manage these trades. Now, as the deadline approaches, there’s speculation about who might be on the trade block next.
Everything could be on the table for the Padres at the MLB Trade Deadline.
The Padres have already traded away six of their top 15 prospects, including five from the top 10. Given their aggressive approach, almost any prospect might be available if it could provide an advantage over the rival Dodgers. However, the Padres have previously traded future potential for immediate gains without much success.
There are rumors that the White Sox, impressed by their previous trade with the Padres, might be interested in making another deal. They, along with other teams expected to sell before the deadline, are aware of the Padres’ willingness to part with top prospects.
Among the prospects who could be on the block is Ethan Salas, the top international prospect from last season. At just 18, he has moved quickly through the ranks but is currently struggling in High-A with the Fort Wayne TinCaps, hitting .195/.300/.274 in 65 games.
The Padres’ No. 2 prospect, left-hander Robby Snelling, is also facing challenges. In Double-A San Antonio, the 22-year-old has a 2-8 record and a 6.14 ERA in 14 appearances and 66 innings, with 56 strikeouts and 29 walks.
Overall, many of the Padres’ top prospects, projected to reach the majors within the next two years, are having tough seasons. However, No. 8 prospect Homer Bush Jr., an outfielder in High-A, is performing well, hitting .257/.359/.325 and stealing 37 bases.
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