Padres Explore Trades, Free Agency Moves Ahead of 2025 Season

The Philadelphia Phillies are eyeing a potential trade for San Diego Padres ace Dylan Cease to enhance their already strong starting rotation, which includes Zack Wheeler and Aaron Nola. The Phillies have the prospect capital to make an enticing offer, with top prospects like Andrew Painter and Aidan Miller, but the Padres are currently reluctant to trade Cease as they see themselves as contenders. Meanwhile, the Padres are considering moves to strengthen their roster by possibly trading bench depth and are also looking at signing veteran catcher Yasmani Grandal to provide stability behind the plate, given the struggles of their current catchers. Despite having signed All-Star catcher Elias Diaz, his poor performance in spring training has raised concerns about the team's catching depth. Additionally, the Padres are weighing the future of three-time batting champion Luis Arraez, whom they value highly despite trade rumors suggesting he might not be as sought after by other teams. Arraez remains committed to the Padres as they aim for a successful 2025 season.