As the MLB trade deadline approaches, the San Diego Padres find themselves in need of some reinforcements in the outfield. Despite a strong start to the season, injuries and underperformance have left the Padres with a thin outfield depth chart. With the team currently in the thick of the playoff race, it is clear that they need to make a move before the deadline to solidify their chances of making a deep postseason run.
One potential solution for the Padres is to target a buy-low outfielder on the open market. These are players who may be struggling with their current team, but have the potential to turn things around and make a significant impact for a new team. By acquiring one of these buy-low targets, the Padres could add some much-needed depth and production to their outfield without breaking the bank.
One player who stands out as a potential buy-low target for the Padres is Jackie Bradley Jr. of the Milwaukee Brewers. Bradley Jr. has had a rough start to the season, hitting just .163 with a .538 OPS. However, he has a track record of success in the past, including a Gold Glove award in 2018 and a World Series championship with the Boston Red Sox in 2018. At just 31 years old, Bradley Jr. still has plenty of potential to bounce back and contribute to a contending team.
The Padres could benefit greatly from adding Bradley Jr. to their outfield mix. With their current center fielder, Trent Grisham, on the injured list, the team has been relying on a combination of Jurickson Profar and Jorge Mateo in center field. While both players have shown flashes of potential, neither has been able to consistently produce at the plate. Bradley Jr.’s addition would not only provide a much-needed defensive upgrade, but also add a left-handed bat to the lineup, which the Padres have been lacking.
Another potential buy-low target for the Padres is Andrew McCutchen of the Philadelphia Phillies. McCutchen, a former MVP and five-time All-Star, has struggled with injuries and inconsistency in recent years. However, he has shown signs of a resurgence this season, hitting .239 with a .794 OPS. At 34 years old, McCutchen may not be the player he once was, but he still has the potential to be a valuable contributor for a team in need of outfield help.
The Padres could use McCutchen in a platoon role with their current right fielder, Wil Myers. While Myers has been solid this season, he has struggled against right-handed pitching, hitting just .228 with a .675 OPS. McCutchen, a left-handed hitter, could provide a much-needed boost against righties and also serve as a veteran presence in the clubhouse.
One final buy-low target for the Padres to consider is Adam Duvall of the Miami Marlins. Duvall has been one of the few bright spots for the struggling Marlins this season, hitting .226 with 20 home runs and a .786 OPS. However, with the Marlins currently in last place in the NL East, Duvall could be available for the right price. The Padres could use Duvall in a corner outfield spot, providing some much-needed power to their lineup.
In addition to their struggles in the outfield, the Padres have also been dealing with injuries to key players such as Fernando Tatis Jr. and Eric Hosmer. By adding a buy-low outfielder, the team could not only address their current needs, but also provide insurance in case of any future injuries.
While there are certainly risks involved in targeting buy-low players, the potential rewards for the Padres could be significant. By acquiring a struggling outfielder with a track record of success, the team could add depth and production to their lineup without giving up top prospects or breaking the bank. With the trade deadline quickly approaching, it is clear that the Padres need to make a move to bolster their outfield. And targeting one of the better buy-low targets on the open market could be the perfect solution for this contending team.
