The magic of baseball often comes alive in the outfield—highlighted by diving grabs, rocket throws, and thrilling walk-off moments.
For the San Diego Padres, that magic is alive and well in right and center field. Left field, however, has been a constant source of frustration and unmet expectations.
With Fernando Tatis Jr. returning to superstar form and Jackson Merrill quickly making a name for himself, the Padres are set in two-thirds of their outfield.
Tatis is putting up stellar numbers with a 141 wRC+ and a team-best 2.6 fWAR, while Merrill has been outstanding as well, posting a 153 wRC+—a standout stat for such a young player.
But the outfield picture remains incomplete. Like a stool missing one of its legs, the Padres’ outfield is unbalanced—and left field is the missing piece.
Replacing Profar has proven more difficult than expected
Since Jurickson Profar left in free agency, the Padres have struggled to fill the void he left in left field — and the stats back it up.
Matt Polishuk of MLB Trade Rumors reports that San Diego’s left fielders have posted a league-worst -0.7 bWAR, making the position not just a weakness, but a major liability.
Compounding the issue is the unexpected injury to veteran Jason Heyward, which has intensified the team’s need to find a solution. According to Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune, the Padres are actively searching the trade market for help in left field.
Gavin Sheets offers hope, but can he be trusted long-term?
Enter Gavin Sheets—at least for now, a temporary fix. The Padres are giving him a chance, and he responded by hitting his 10th home run on Sunday. His wRC+ sits at a strong 136, which would usually be something to celebrate.
However, there’s a downside behind those stats. Sheets has had defensive struggles and recorded negative fWAR in both of the past two seasons: -1.5 in 2023 and -0.9 in 2024.
He’s more of a power hitter than a dependable everyday outfielder, so relying on him for a crucial role late in the season feels risky, like balancing on a tightrope without any safety net.
Trade market buzzing as Padres look for a solution
There’s still some time before the trade deadline, but recent history shows the Padres tend to act quickly.
Last May, they made an early-season splash by acquiring Luis Arraez from the Marlins, signaling that aggressive midseason trades are on the table once again.
According to Polishuk, several players could be available this summer.
The Baltimore Orioles, who have plenty of depth and are focused on clarifying their long-term roster, might be open to trading Cedric Mullins, Ryan O’Hearn, or Ramon Laureano. While each has their drawbacks, they all represent more stability than what the Padres currently possess.
Beyond that, other options include Tommy Pham, who offers experience and playoff toughness. Andrew Benintendi is having a tough season but could bounce back strongly.
Veteran players like Mike Tauchman and Michael A. Taylor could bring valuable experience, while Jesus Sanchez or Austin Slater might be interesting choices due to their potential in platoon roles.
Padres unlikely to stand pat at the deadline
Allowing the trade deadline to pass without improving the left field seems almost unthinkable. President of baseball operations A.J. Preller is known for making bold moves, and with Tatis and Merrill performing at their best, now is the perfect moment to act.
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Having a fully strengthened outfield could elevate the Padres from playoff contenders to serious championship threats.
The front office has witnessed top-tier outfield talent firsthand—in right and center fields. What remains is the missing piece to complete the trio.
Much like an artist with two-thirds of a masterpiece finished, the Padres understand it only takes one inspired touch to complete the picture.
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