As the San Diego Padres gear up for the 2025 season with aspirations of winning the World Series, they face pressing financial challenges and roster gaps that may compel them to part with some talent.
In particular, Luis Arraez, a key player due for a $14.6 million arbitration raise, has become a focal point of discussions. The three-time batting champion has experienced a whirlwind of team changes over the past three seasons, potentially setting up for a fourth club as he enters 2025.
Arraez made a significant offensive impact upon joining the Padres, helping elevate the team’s performance from a .470 winning percentage to .602. His impressive ability to avoid strikeouts, with only 29 whiffs and a mere 3.4 percent strikeout rate, has bolstered his value. However, his limited defensive capabilities—primarily playing designated hitter and first base—might complicate his trade appeal. His Wins Above Replacement (WAR) saw a notable drop from 4.9 in 2023 to 1.0 this past season.
The recent trade of star outfielder Juan Soto, along with the shedding of $90 million in payroll, signaled a shift in the organization, but financial hurdles persist as the winter approaches. The Padres aim to maintain their payroll levels from 2024 to 2025, a challenging task amidst the need for roster improvements.
With a rotation currently comprising Dylan Cease, Michael King, and Yu Darvish, San Diego is also on the lookout for additional starting pitching. Losing players like Arraez could exacerbate existing roster deficiencies.
As President of Baseball Operations A.J. Preller strategizes for the offseason, he faces multiple paths concerning Arraez: a possible trade, a long-term contract extension, or allowing him to play out his final year while cutting costs elsewhere. As the Padres navigate these decisions, the future for Arraez and the team remains uncertain.
