Padres general manager A.J. Preller is known as one of the most shrewd executives in professional sports. He defied conventional wisdom by signing Manny Machado, not once but twice, and made bold moves trading Juan Soto on two occasions.
In 2024, Preller made unexpected acquisitions of Dylan Cease and Luis Arraez, the latter surprising the entire league. With San Diego firmly in the Wild Card race, Preller aims to make significant additions before the deadline, though he faces unique challenges.
Preller has dealt away numerous prospects, leaving the farm system top-heavy but not barren. Moreover, with eight teams within 3.0 games of the final NL playoff spot currently held by the Padres, potential trade partners may be fewer than expected.
San Diego’s primary focus is pitching — both starters and relievers are needed to bolster their rotation and bullpen depth. While they await Xander Bogaerts’ return from a shoulder injury, additional depth in catcher, outfield, and possibly a top-tier designated hitter would strengthen their lineup.
However, Preller must navigate financial constraints, as the Padres are approximately $9 million below the Competitive Balance Tax threshold and are eager to avoid exceeding it.
Given these considerations, here are three viable targets the Padres could pursue.
1. LHP Yusei Kikuchi, TOR
Expiring contracts will likely be appealing because the other team won’t have the leverage to inquire about Ethan Salas, who is considered the top catching prospect in baseball and potentially untouchable. Kikuchi is both effective and affordable, with any acquiring team responsible for approximately $5 million. The Padres currently lack a left-handed starter on their roster, making Kikuchi a logical target for them.
2. OF Randy Arozarena, TB
Preller is known for favoring athleticism, tools, and players with potential for resurgence. Arozarena fits this profile perfectly. Despite experiencing his worst season to date, there’s a belief he could benefit from a change of scenery. The Rays currently languish in last place, with Tropicana Field often considered a challenging environment. Arozarena has shown his best performances in high-pressure situations like the playoffs and the World Baseball Classic, thriving in front of large crowds.
Petco Park’s energetic atmosphere, with 40,000 fans filling the stands nightly, could potentially reignite Arozarena’s star quality. While Tampa Bay might hesitate to trade such a talented player at a low point, their current situation may leave them with little choice.
3. RHP Mason Miller, OAK
This is a pivotal opportunity. The Athletics find themselves in a rapid downward spiral, yet their standout closer remains under team control for another five seasons, making him exceedingly valuable. Any suitor will need to present an exceptionally enticing offer to acquire Miller. A potential deal could revolve around Padres right-hander Dylan Lesko, currently their third-ranked prospect, possibly supplemented by another high-caliber prospect.
If this scenario materializes, the Padres would fortify their bullpen with Robert Suarez handling the eighth inning with his 101 mph velocity, followed by Miller unleashing 103 mph heat in the ninth.
Preller is meticulously assessing the market and evaluating his options with ample time before the MLB Trade Deadline on July 30 at 6:00 p.m. ET.