The San Diego Padres are reportedly aiming to reduce payroll this offseason.
According to Jeff Passan’s latest report, Padres general manager A.J. Preller is actively exploring ways to cut costs, which includes the potential trade of established veterans. Among the names mentioned are Jake Cronenworth and Luis Arraez, who collectively are owed $93 million.
“San Diego GM A.J. Preller, known for his willingness to explore creative deals, could trade infielders Jake Cronenworth or Luis Arraez,” Passan noted. “With a lack of quality infield options on the free-agent market, either player could command a premium return.”
The New York Yankees are one team that could benefit from such moves, as they’re always seeking to upgrade their roster. FanSided baseball writer Jacob Mountz believes Luis Arraez could be a good fit for the Yankees, but he advises against pursuing Cronenworth.
“Luis Arraez is an ideal rental candidate the Yankees should consider,” Mountz wrote. “Cronenworth, however, comes with multiple years of control, and his current track record doesn’t justify the investment.”
Adding Arraez would allow the Yankees to shift Jazz Chisholm Jr. back to centerfield, where he has performed better. While Cronenworth has potential for improvement, his long-term contract presents significant risk if he doesn’t bounce back.
Both players remain on Yankees GM Brian Cashman’s radar, though the team appears more focused on securing a power-hitting third baseman.
The infield market is expected to stay quiet until stars like Nolan Arenado and Alex Bregman land with new teams. The Yankees have already been linked to both players.
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