MLB Trade Rumors: Padres Interested In Elvis Andrus

The Padres lost out on trading for Andrelton Simmons. Now they’re turning their attention to another shortstop: Rangers shortstop Elvis Andrus

The San Diego Padres are actively looking for a shortstop after the shortstop position plagued them throughout the 2015 season. They were interested in trading for former Atlanta Braves shortstop Andrelton Simmons, but lost out on him to the Los Angeles Angels. They’ve decided to turn their attention to another shortstop who is locked up long-term: Elvis Andrus of the Texas Rangers.

Elvis Andrus could be had at a cheap price for the Padres. The Rangers have a surplus of shortstop prospects and would probably love to be done with Andrus and the $103 million that he is due through the 2022 season. He has an option for the 2023 season that becomes a player option if he is traded. He also gets a full no-trade clause if he gets traded. His option becomes guaranteed with significant playing time in 2021 and 2022.

According to MLB Daily Dish, the Padres were active in scouting Andrus throughout last season. Andrus would make sense for the Padres because he could potentially solve their shortstop issues long-term. Of course, he could wind up being an albatross for the Padres. He would have to approve any trade if he is traded to them.

The Padres emptied most of their farm system last season when they made several huge trade acquisitions. They replenished it by trading Craig Kimbrel to the Boston Red Sox. However, they likely don’t have the prospects needed to get a huge acquisition at shortstop. Andrus is a good fit for them because of that as long as they are willing to take the risk that Andrus could be an albatross contract for them.

Andrus struggled in 2015 with a batting average of .258. His .309 OBP was horrendous and he showed virtually no power. One thing’s for sure: the Padres are a very bold team and they desperately need a shortstop if they want to contend in 2016.