The San Diego Padres have kept things relatively low-key this offseason, but they made a bit of noise Thursday with a pair of familiar faces returning to the organization: Bud Black and Wil Myers are back in the fold. For a team that's navigating a transitional period under first-time manager Craig Stammen, these hires could be more than just nostalgic reunions-they might be strategic moves to steady the ship.
Let’s start with Black. A former Padres manager and longtime MLB veteran, Black brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the San Diego clubhouse culture.
With Stammen stepping into the manager’s role after Mike Shildt’s retirement, the Padres are clearly surrounding him with voices who’ve been through the grind. Stammen, a respected former reliever, knows the game from a player’s perspective, but he’s never managed at the big-league level.
That’s where Black’s presence becomes crucial. He’s someone Stammen can lean on, especially when it comes to the day-to-day nuances of managing a major-league roster.
It’s a smart move that signals the Padres are serious about supporting their new skipper with proven baseball minds.
Padres Making Moves Internationally
While the big-league roster hasn’t seen many splashy additions, the Padres are staying active on the international front. On Thursday, they signed eight international prospects during the current signing period, which runs through December 15.
There’s still money left in their international pool, so don’t be surprised if more signings are on the horizon. This is a long-term play, but it’s one that’s been a staple of A.J.
Preller’s approach-build depth and talent from the ground up.
Fan Q&A Touches on Future Moves
Speaking of Preller, Padres beat writer AJ Cassavell recently fielded questions from fans on Reddit, offering insights into the front office’s thinking. Topics ranged from Preller’s future with the team-possibly even a contract extension-to how the Padres might approach free agency.
Cassavell also weighed in on the Dodgers’ recent addition of Kyle Tucker, which has certainly shifted the balance of power in the NL West. With the Padres still in the market for roster upgrades, this Q&A gives fans a glimpse into the organization’s mindset as the offseason unfolds.
JP Sears Could Be a Key Arm
One name to keep an eye on this season: JP Sears. The lefty is featured in the Padres' ongoing roster review, and he’s a candidate to log significant innings in 2026.
With the rotation in flux, Sears could find himself playing a much bigger role than originally anticipated. He’s not a household name just yet, but he’s the kind of pitcher who could emerge as a key contributor if given the opportunity.
Around the League: Bichette, Realmuto, and Bellinger Headline Free Agency
The MLB free agent market is heating up, and Thursday brought a flurry of movement. After Kyle Tucker chose the Dodgers over the Mets and other suitors, the Mets pivoted quickly and landed Bo Bichette on a three-year, $126 million deal. Bichette will slot in at third base-an unfamiliar position for him at the MLB level-but his bat makes him a valuable addition to an already stacked New York infield.
The Phillies, who were reportedly the frontrunners for Bichette and offered him a seven-year deal worth up to $200 million, responded by locking up their cornerstone behind the plate. J.T. Realmuto re-signed on a three-year, $45 million deal, keeping one of the game’s top catchers in Philadelphia.
With Tucker and Bichette off the board, the focus now shifts to Cody Bellinger-the top remaining position player on the market. Several teams that missed out on the earlier sweepstakes are expected to pursue Bellinger aggressively, and his decision could come sooner rather than later.
Caratini Heads to Minnesota, Verlander Drawing Interest
The Minnesota Twins made a move of their own, signing catcher Victor Caratini to a two-year deal. The former Padre adds depth and experience to their catching corps.
On the pitching side, Framber Valdez remains the top free agent starter available, but Justin Verlander is also garnering interest. The Orioles, who were in on Valdez, are reportedly among the teams eyeing Verlander. Even at this stage of his career, Verlander’s track record and postseason pedigree make him an intriguing option for contenders looking to bolster their rotation.
De La Cruz Turns Down Massive Extension
In Cincinnati, star shortstop Elly De La Cruz made headlines by turning down a significant contract extension last spring. The offer reportedly exceeded the 10-year, $225 million deal the Reds gave Joey Votto. It’s a bold move by De La Cruz, who’s betting on his upside and could be positioning himself for an even bigger payday down the line.
Three-Team Trade Shakes Up Rosters
The Los Angeles Angels made a notable addition Thursday, acquiring outfielder Josh Lowe in a three-team trade. The Angels have said they’re open to playing Lowe in center field, giving them some flexibility in their outfield alignment.
Meanwhile, the Tampa Bay Rays picked up infielder Gavin Lux in the deal and announced plans to have him play second base. Lux, who’s flashed potential when healthy, could get a fresh start in Tampa with a more defined role.
Final Thoughts
The Padres may not be making headlines with blockbuster signings, but there’s a clear strategy unfolding-build from within, support the new manager, and stay active on the international market. Meanwhile, the rest of the league is buzzing with high-profile moves, and the dominoes are still falling. As spring training inches closer, the next few weeks could bring more clarity-and more surprises.