The San Diego Padres may not be throwing around the biggest checks this offseason, but that doesn’t mean they’re sitting idle. While the front office has been actively exploring ways to trim payroll-shopping around some of their veteran contracts-they’re still making strategic additions. Case in point: the Padres have reached a one-year, $4 million agreement with outfielder Miguel Andujar.
It’s a modest deal in terms of dollars, but it’s a move that adds real value to the roster. Andujar, who spent time with both the Athletics and Reds in 2025, quietly put together a strong offensive campaign.
Over 94 games, he hit a robust .318 with an .822 OPS-numbers that jump off the page in today’s pitching-heavy environment. His bWAR sat at 0.8, which might raise some eyebrows given his production at the plate.
But the dip in overall value comes down to his defense, which left a lot to be desired, particularly in left field.
That said, Andujar wasn’t a total liability with the glove across the board. He showed a bit more competence in right field and at first base, albeit in limited action. Still, his defensive limitations are something the Padres will have to work around, especially if he’s going to earn more than spot starts.
Offensively, Andujar brings something the Padres lineup could use more of: consistent contact. He’s a career .282 hitter who doesn’t chase the long ball but still has enough pop to keep pitchers honest.
Think Luis Arraez with a little more punch. For a team that’s been top-heavy in recent years, adding a bat like Andujar’s to the mix-especially off the bench-adds depth and versatility.
Where exactly he fits remains to be seen. There’s potential for him to take reps at first base or designated hitter, possibly in place of Gavin Sheets or Jake Cronenworth.
If the Padres decide to give him another look in the outfield, the most likely candidate for rotation would be Ramon Laureano. That’s notable, considering both Cronenworth and Laureano have been floated in trade discussions this winter.
Should either of them be moved, Andujar becomes more than just a depth piece-he becomes a plug-and-play starter.
For now, though, Andujar slots in as the team’s top bench bat, joining a group that includes Mason McCoy, Will Wagner, and Bryce Johnson. Among that crew, Andujar clearly stands out as the most proven offensive contributor. He gives manager Mike Shildt a reliable option in late-game situations and the flexibility to cover multiple positions if needed.
And while this move doesn’t make headlines the way a blockbuster trade or a nine-figure deal would, it’s the kind of savvy, under-the-radar signing that can pay dividends over a long season. The Padres may be tightening the purse strings in some areas, but they’re still looking to compete-and adding a bat like Andujar’s shows they’re not backing down from that goal.