Padres Retain Minor League Free Agents

The San Diego Padres are actively reshaping their roster as they retain key minor league prospects, including catcher Brandon Valenzuela and left-hander Omar Cruz, while also signing right-hander Eduarniel Nunez from the Cubs. Meanwhile, attention turns to potential free-agent acquisitions, including Japanese pitcher Roki Sasaki, who could join the MLB after declining an offer from the Chiba Lotte Marines, with the Dodgers emerging as frontrunners for his signature. The Padres face the reality of nine players entering free agency, including Ha-Seong Kim and Jurickson Profar, who are significant contributors from the past season. Additionally, with Joe Musgrove recovering from Tommy John surgery, the Padres may seek another starting pitcher, with Max Fried and Blake Snell being mentioned as possible targets despite concerns about contracts and health risks. The Padres' financial situation complicates their ability to pursue top free agents, given their existing high-dollar commitments. Overall, the team's offseason moves will be crucial in determining their competitive standing in 2025.