Padres Target Roki Sasaki in Free Agency

The Detroit Tigers are showing interest in infielder Ha-Seong Kim, who is recovering from shoulder surgery but could still secure a multiyear deal due to his potential impact on the team. Meanwhile, the San Diego Padres are evaluating trade options for pitcher Dylan Cease and reliever Jonathan Loáisiga, both of whom have had strong performances but face challenges with their contracts and injuries. Cease, who posted a solid ERA and strikeout numbers in the past season, could be a key trade chip as the Padres aim to reshape their roster amidst financial constraints. Additionally, the Padres are optimistic about signing Japanese pitching sensation Roki Sasaki, who has recently been posted for MLB teams, with manager Mike Shildt expressing confidence in landing him. The competition for Sasaki includes the Dodgers, but the Padres are leveraging their international reputation and connections, particularly with veteran Yu Darvish, to gain an edge. This offseason is pivotal for the Padres as they look to strengthen their pitching staff and overall team structure while addressing financial limitations.