The Padres are looking for ‘another pitcher and hitter.’ in MLB free agency

The San Diego Padres made a big splash in MLB free agency last week when they signed Xander Bogaerts and came with a slew of big-money contracts. However, the Padres are not done cementing their newfound status as MLB game changers.

Following the signing of Xander Bogaerts. The Padres are now on the lookout for new prospects

Xander Bogaerts - Padres

On Friday, The Athletic’s MLB insider Ken Rosenthal reported that the organization is “looking for another starting pitcher and another hitter”. San Diego Padres could sign six free agents in the near future.

  • J.D. Martinez

J.D. Martinez is one of the last big-name free agents in baseball. At 35, the 12-year veteran is getting old, but he’s aging like a fine wine, having earned All-Star honors in four of the last five years, including 2022.

Martinez would be a significant addition to the lineup, both filling and improving on the void left by Josh Bell’s recent signing with Cleveland.

Michael Conforto missed the entire 2022 season after failing to land a suitable free agent offer and instead undergoing shoulder surgery. The outfielder is reportedly looking for a one-year deal at a good enough salary to allow him to return to MLB free agency next year.

Related: The Astros and Mets are two teams interested in free agent Michael Conforto – MLB Rumors

  • Michael Wacha

Michael Wacha has long been regarded as a reliable starting pitcher in the league. The 31-year-old would undoubtedly strengthen their starting lineup and provide them with a proven talent for the back end of the rotation.

  • Nathan Eovaldi

Nathan Eovaldi is a year removed from being named an All-Star for the Red Sox in 2021. The 32-year-old, like Wacha, is a proven and very competent starting pitcher who would be a major asset to the San Diego Padres starting rotation.

  • Michael Brantley Jr.

More MLB: Mike Zunino Discusses Working with Guardians Prospect Bo Naylor: “I Want To Be A Mentor To Him”

If it hadn’t been for season-ending shoulder surgery, Michael Brantley Jr. would have been one of the biggest names on the market this offseason.

If he stays healthy, the five-time All-Star would undoubtedly add another good bat to the lineup as well as solid defense to the outfield.

  • Justin Turner

He, like Bogaerts, has championship experience that the organization can draw on as it seeks its first World Series title. The 38-year-old is one of the oldest players still available in MLB free agency.