The San Diego Padres are in the spotlight as the ownership race heats up. Four of the five groups vying for the team have been identified, but the mystery remains around the fifth bidder.
Among the known contenders is a group featuring former San Diego Chargers quarterback and NFL Hall of Famer, Drew Brees. With the sale process moving swiftly, new ownership might take the reins shortly after the 2026 season kicks off.
On the field, the Padres had a nail-biter against the Cincinnati Reds, falling 11-10. Manny Machado was the star of the night, launching two game-tying homers, including a grand slam that had fans on their feet.
In other highlights, Sung-Mun Song notched his first hit as a Padre, and Nick Pivetta took the mound for his Spring Training debut. The Padres are set to face the Colorado Rockies next, keeping the momentum rolling.
In injury updates, reliever Yuki Matsui, dealing with a groin issue, has been removed from Japan's World Baseball Classic roster. Meanwhile, David Morgan is solidifying his role in what many consider one of the top bullpens in baseball. He's aiming to make a significant impact this Spring.
Good news for Padres fans comes from Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune, who reports that Joe Musgrove is making strides in his recovery. After a solid simulated game, Musgrove is nearing his first start post-Tommy John surgery.
Dennis Lin of The Athletic has been fielding questions about the Padres, discussing everything from the team's potential sale to A.J. Preller’s contract extension, salary cap considerations, free agency strategies, and the catching situation.
As the Padres gear up for the new season, there’s plenty of excitement both on and off the field. Stay tuned for more updates as the team’s journey unfolds.