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MLB Hot Stove: San Diego Padres

By Thomas Conroy

Sep 23, 2015; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Padres relief pitcher Craig Kimbrel (46) reacts after a run scores on a wild pitch during the ninth inning against the San Francisco Giants at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 23, 2015; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Padres relief pitcher Craig Kimbrel (46) reacts after a run scores on a wild pitch during the ninth inning against the San Francisco Giants at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports /
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Apr 16, 2015; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Nationals shortstop Ian Desmond (20) fields a ground ball during the game against the Philadelphia Phillies at Nationals Park. The Nationals won 5-2. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports /

Desmond could be a free agent option

The shortstop position has been a revolving door of utility infielders for the Padres since the early 90s. Heading into last season, no one in the organization was confident that the Clint Barmes/Alexis Amarista platoon would produce, as both are adequate hitters but not much better in the field.

Preller understands this situation calls for an immediate makeover because no team can become a serious playoff contender without a reliable shortstop. He must decide whether to increase the payroll via a free agent signing or trade an asset to obtain a major league-ready middle infielder.

One possibility is signing Ian Desmond to a short-term free agent contract, as this move benefits both sides. This agreement allows Desmond to re-establish himself as a quality shortstop before heading back into the free agent market to secure that mega contract.

The Pads gain an immediate improvement to their middle infield situation until one of the two highly regarded shortstops (Javier Guerra and Carlos Asuaje) acquired in the Kimbrel trade distinguishes themselves as being the heir apparent. Neither one is projected to be ready for the majors at this time, but they could make their major league debut at some point next summer.

Lets not forget that Desmond is a two-time Sliver Slugger Award winner and will help to replace Upton’s bat in the lineup. He’s a middle-of-the order hitter with above-average fielding skills.

Look for an agreement could come fast, as this seems like a perfect fit for both sides.

Next: Adding a left-hand hitter

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