Padres’ Catching Situation, A.J. Preller’s Future, and Machado’s Voice: Key Storylines from San Diego Camp
Spring training is underway, and the San Diego Padres have no shortage of storylines-some promising, others pressing. From a make-or-break moment behind the plate to questions at the front office level, let’s break down what’s happening in Padres camp and why it matters.
Luis Campusano: Now or Never
For catcher Luis Campusano, the stakes couldn’t be higher. He’s out of minor league options, which means this spring could very well determine whether he stays with the Padres or finds himself on waivers. If he doesn’t make the major league roster, San Diego would have to cut him loose, opening the door for another team to scoop him up.
Campusano has shown flashes of potential, but consistency and health have been hurdles. This spring isn’t just about making an impression-it’s about proving he belongs at the big-league level for good. The Padres need clarity at catcher, and Campusano’s performance could either solidify his role or force the club into a tough decision.
Ethan Salas: Rebuilding a Rising Star
Ethan Salas, on the other hand, is in a very different position but still has something to prove. After losing most of last season to a stress reaction in his lower back, the highly touted prospect is looking to regain the form that once had him ranked among baseball’s elite young talents.
If Salas bounces back strong, he could quickly reassert himself as a cornerstone of the Padres’ future. But if lingering issues or performance setbacks continue, the front office might have to consider his value in a different light-possibly even as a trade chip to strengthen the current roster. That’s not a decision the Padres want to make lightly, but it’s one that could come into play depending on how this season unfolds.
A.J. Preller’s Uncertain Future
One of the more surprising developments around the Padres this spring isn’t on the field-it’s in the front office. President of baseball operations and general manager A.J. Preller has yet to receive a contract extension, and the silence around his situation is raising eyebrows.
Even team leader Manny Machado isn’t hiding his confusion. In his media session on Sunday, Machado called the lack of an extension for Preller “weird,” making it clear he believes the longtime executive has earned the right to continue leading the franchise. That kind of public backing from a star player speaks volumes.
Preller has been the architect of bold moves and big swings-some hits, some misses-but he’s never been afraid to go all-in. Whether ownership agrees with Machado remains to be seen, but the uncertainty is definitely a storyline to watch.
Castellanos, Andújar Add Power to the Lineup
Offensively, the Padres made one thing clear this offseason: they wanted more pop in the lineup. The additions of Nick Castellanos and Miguel Andújar reflect that goal, and when you pair them with Manny Machado, Fernando Tatis Jr., Xander Bogaerts, Jackson Merrill, Gavin Sheets, and Ramón Laureano, there’s legitimate reason to believe the power numbers could take a leap this season.
Castellanos, in particular, wasted no time blending into his new surroundings. He reported to camp on day one of full-squad workouts and has already been making a strong early impression-not just with his bat, but with his attitude and approach.
World Baseball Classic: A Divisive Topic Among Fans
The World Baseball Classic continues to spark mixed reactions among Padres fans. Some love seeing their favorite players compete on the international stage, while others worry about injuries and fatigue heading into the regular season.
Regardless of where fans stand, the WBC is going forward, and players are embracing the opportunity to represent their countries. It’s a unique part of the baseball calendar, and for many athletes, it’s a chance they wouldn’t trade for anything.
Around the League: Quick Hits
- Machado on the Dodgers and a Salary Cap: Machado didn’t just talk about Preller this week-he also weighed in on the Dodgers’ big-spending offseason and the broader conversation around a potential salary cap in MLB. His comments reflect a growing awareness among players about the financial dynamics shaping the league.
- Bryce Harper Responds in Philly: Over in Phillies camp, Bryce Harper addressed comments from team president Dave Dombrowski, who suggested Harper was no longer “elite.” Harper didn’t shy away from the topic, offering his own take on where he stands in the game today.
- Cavan Biggio Heads to Houston: Cavan Biggio is taking a familiar path-signing a minor league deal with the Astros, just like his Hall of Fame father Craig once did. It’s a fresh opportunity for Biggio to carve out his own legacy in Houston.
- Lindor and Soto Clear the Air in New York: Francisco Lindor and Juan Soto have put past tensions behind them, signaling a fresh start in the Mets’ clubhouse. If the chemistry holds, it could be a key factor in New York’s 2026 campaign.
What’s Next for the Padres?
As spring training rolls on, the Padres are juggling future planning with present urgency. The catcher situation, Preller’s status, and the impact of new additions like Castellanos and Andújar will all shape how this team looks come Opening Day.
There’s talent on this roster-no question. But turning that talent into wins will require clarity, cohesion, and perhaps a few tough decisions along the way.