The San Diego Padres haven’t been shy about shelling out big money in free agency in recent years.
When they set their sights on a player, they’re willing to go to great lengths to try and land him. It’s unclear exactly how they’ll approach this offseason, but with a World Series push still in play and an eye on the future, they’re expected to stay aggressive.
However, if Dylan Cease and Michael King aren’t retained, the Padres risk losing key arms and leaving a major gap in their starting rotation.
Padres could pursue polarizing pitcher
In their search for potential upgrades, Jon Heyman of the New York Post has connected the team to a somewhat divisive figure in Framber Valdez.
Heyman noted, “The underrated left-hander has led MLB in wins and innings per start since 2020. Red Sox, Giants, Rangers, Orioles, Tigers, Padres,” highlighting teams that could be interested.
Some Houston Astros fans have grown frustrated with Valdez’s behavior in recent seasons. While he can show a bit of attitude, there’s no question he’s among the best left-handed starters in baseball and possibly the top pitcher available this offseason.
However, ESPN’s Jeff Passan reported that a recent incident could affect how teams view him. Last week, Valdez appeared to intentionally cross up his catcher, César Salazar, hitting the rookie in the chest with a 93-mph sinker.
Both blamed it on a miscommunication, but front offices took notice. Passan explained, “When pitchers and catchers get crossed up, pitchers usually look to the catcher to address the issue. Instead, as Salazar looked toward the mound, Valdez had his back turned.”
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