REPORT: Padres Eyeing $16 Million Left-Handed Pitcher to Complete Rotation

Roki Sasaki is the San Diego Padres’ primary target to bolster their rotation, but several teams are reportedly pursuing him, meaning the Padres need a backup plan. Even if they do land Sasaki, they might still look to add another starting pitcher to complete the rotation. Regardless of Sasaki’s decision, all of the Padres’ current starters are right-handed. Signing José Quintana as the left-handed option could be a smart move for the Padres. Despite being 35 years old last season, Quintana proved he could still be a reliable starter, making 31 appearances for the Mets and posting a 3.75 ERA over 170 1/3 innings. His ground ball rate, ranking in the 79th percentile, is one of his standout qualities, helping keep his ERA in check. Throughout his career, Quintana has performed well against the Los Angeles Dodgers, posting 52 strikeouts and a 2.04 ERA in 13 games. He’s projected to sign a two-year deal worth just over $16 million, with an average annual value of $8.3 million—an affordable figure for the Padres. General manager A.J. Preller is always seeking ways to improve his team and compete with the Dodgers in the NL West. While signing Quintana may not generate immediate excitement, strong performances from him could help shape a rotation capable of competing with any team.