The San Diego Padres are gearing up for the new season with a clear focus on strengthening their starting rotation. They've made some intriguing moves this offseason, including the signing of Walker Buehler to a minor league deal.
Buehler, a seasoned pitcher with a World Series ring to his name, is looking to make a comeback after a challenging season. His decision to join the Padres was driven by a desire to be part of a playoff contender.
Buehler shared his enthusiasm, saying, "I wanted to play in the playoffs and go to a place that has a chance to win. It’s kind of a little two-way calculus you’ve got to do. At the end of the day, this was the opportunity that I was most excited about, and I’m happy that it worked out."
However, the Padres know they might need more than just Buehler to solidify their rotation. There's talk of pursuing additional pitching talent, with Joe Ryan being a name that stands out. Ryan, with his remaining years of control, presents an attractive option for the Padres, especially if they find themselves in need of a reliable arm mid-season.
Bailey Ober could also be a trade target, potentially offering a more budget-friendly option. Both pitchers have the potential to make an impact, but Ryan's track record makes him a particularly appealing choice. If Yu Darvish's injury lingers, having a pitcher of Ryan's caliber could be crucial for the Padres to maintain their competitive edge.
As the season progresses, the Padres will need to keep a close eye on their pitching staff. Adding someone like Ryan could be the key to navigating any rough patches and keeping their playoff aspirations alive.