MLB Rumors: Nolan Arenado trade condition, Padres open for business, AL East trade tactics
By Kristen Wong
MLB Rumors: Padres ready to shop stars barring unforeseen turnaround
As the trade deadline approaches, the buyer and seller markets are starting to become more distinct. Let’s take a look at a team from the NL West, shall we?
The San Diego Padres currently sit in fourth place with a 48-52 record, but the ongoing sentiment is that they will be buyers in August. Fairly far back from a Wild Card spot, the Friars’ season has played out a lot like that of the Mets and Cardinals — high expectations, disappointing results.
Like the Cards, the Padres may be leaning toward selling their stars. According to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, San Diego needs to drop its delusions and prepare to move some of its big names like Juan Soto.
"They should swallow their pride and trade All-Star outfielder Juan Soto, getting back at least some of the value in the prospects they traded away in the first place to land him from the Washington Nationals. Yet, there has been no hint that he’s available. They instead are likely to shop All-Star closer Josh Hader and starter Blake Snell, barring a sudden and dramatic winning streak."
The hype around a Juan Soto trade hasn’t died down, and at this point in the season, San Diego’s position probably won’t change. Even if they hold onto Soto, Josh Hader and Blake Snell still rank as valuable trade chips. They haven’t preferred to sell in recent years, but that trend may have to change in 2023.