JUST IN: A.J. Preller confirms a major trade announcement as the Padres consider trading three star players
The San Diego Padres are confident about landing Japanese pitching star Roki Sasaki, who was recently posted to MLB by the Chiba Lotte Marines. The 23-year-old is expected to decide on his MLB destination after January 15 as part of the 2025 class.
While the Los Angeles Dodgers pose strong competition, Padres manager Mike Shildt expressed optimism about San Diego’s chances during an MLB Network Radio appearance. He praised the organization’s international scouting efforts and highlighted the team’s diverse and global roster. Shildt emphasized that the Padres will make a strong push to secure Sasaki, believing they have built meaningful connections that could influence his decision.
Padres could allocate international pool money to Sasaki
The Padres will be able to offer Sasaki as much as they need from their $6.26 million in 2025 international pool funds if he waits until after January 15 to make his decision.
Padres have talent & all-around culture to reel in Sasaki
The San Diego roster is among the most skilled in the Major Leagues. Even though the Dodgers are the current World Series champions, Shildt nearly guided his Padres to victory over Los Angeles in the 2024 NLDS, but the Padres lost 3-2 in a close five-game series. Sasaki might make the difference for them in the future. Additionally, San Diego can provide the exceptional flamethrower with the club scene and lifestyle he desires.
The San Diego Padres are reportedly open to trade discussions involving three star players: Xander Bogaerts, Luis Arraez, and Dylan Cease, according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post.
- Luis Arraez
- 27, is in the final year of his contract and is considered one of the best contact hitters in baseball, making him highly attractive on the trade market.
- Dylan Cease
- 28, also entering his contract’s final year, has elite strikeout potential, suggesting he could command a substantial return.
- Xander Bogaerts,
- 32, presents a more challenging trade piece due to injury concerns and a $229 million contract running through 2033. However, his power-hitting ability as a middle infielder could still intrigue teams in need of offensive firepower.
The Padres remain competitive after a 92-win season and still boast stars like Fernando Tatis Jr., Manny Machado, and Yu Darvish. However, financial flexibility seems to be a priority, especially after moving Juan Soto and letting Josh Hader walk in free agency【8†source】.