The Padres are shopping to fill many holes in the roster, and the catcher position is one of them.
The San Diego Padres are looking for help at the catcher position.
In Dallas this week, A.J. Preller indicated that the team is surely exploring all options when it comes to catchers.
He also indicated that the team made a fair offer to Kyle Higashioka, and the Padres also contacted several of the other catchers who have signed in the last few weeks.
The clock is ticking, and the Padres may just need to stand pat with Luis Campusano and Brett Sullivan.
However, there are rumors that the Padres are shopping Luis Campusanor. The former top prospect did not make the playoff roster and is currently playing in the Dominican in the winter leagues. It is clear that the Padres have soured on his future with the team.
In looking over the free agent list, there is little left to choose.
The Padres may need to be creative in the trade market.
Let’s explore both options briefly.
Free Agent Options
Yasmani Grandal
At 36, his best baseball is clearly behind him. The former Padres catcher recorded a .704 OPS last season for the Pirates in 72 games. The switch hitter made $2.5 million last year and would require little money to secure. He is, sadly, the best option in the free agent pool.
Elias Diaz
Diaz spent time with the Padres last season and did not impress. The Padres failed to give him any at-bats in the playoffs, and it appears his playing days are gone. The right-handed hitter will likely need a minor-league deal to continue his career possibly.
Yan Gomes
Over the years, this veteran has hit some big homers against the Padres, but the 37-year-old has nothing left in the tank. Gomes put up a .421 OPS last year and will likely retire this winter.
James McCann
McCann has spent time in four different organizations in his 11-year career. The right-handed hitter put up a .667 OPS last season in 214 at-bats with the Orioles. McCann is not a household name, but he could be serviceable. The 34-year-old will likely not be a costly addition.