Padres Expected to Upgrade Left Field Ahead MLB Trade Deadline

As the MLB trade deadline approaches, the New York Mets, holding the best record in the National League, are targeting bullpen upgrades, with analyst Jim Bowden suggesting Colorado Rockies' right-handed reliever Seth Halvorsen as a potential addition despite the Mets' greater need for left-handed relievers. Meanwhile, the San Diego Padres, chasing the NL West lead, face a critical need to improve their left field, a position where they've struggled offensively following Jurickson Profar's departure and Jason Heyward's injury. Jim Bowden and ESPN insider Bradford Doolittle both highlight former Stanford player Kyle Stowers and Boston Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran as possible trade targets to bolster the Padres' left field. However, acquiring Duran is complicated by the Padres' lack of pitching prospects and the Red Sox's need for starting pitching. The Padres also continue to build for the future with promising draft prospects like Slater de Brun, indicating a dual strategy of immediate improvement and long-term development. Overall, both teams are actively exploring strategic trades to address key roster weaknesses and strengthen their postseason chances.