What's Happening?
San Diego Padres General Manager A.J. Preller has been notably active in the MLB trade market, making deals with nearly every team since taking over in 2014. At the 2025 trade deadline, Preller executed trades with several teams, including the Athletics, Toronto Blue Jays, Milwaukee Brewers, Baltimore Orioles, and Kansas City Royals, enhancing various positions such as the bullpen and outfield. Despite his extensive trading history, Preller has yet to make a trade with the Arizona Diamondbacks, a fellow NL West team. This is particularly notable given his willingness to engage in trades with other teams within the division, such as the Los Angeles Dodgers.
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Why It's Important?
Preller's aggressive trading strategy has significant implications for the Padres' competitiveness in the MLB. By continuously seeking to improve the team's roster through trades, Preller positions the Padres as a formidable contender. His approach contrasts with more conservative general managers who may avoid intra-division trades. The absence of a trade with the Diamondbacks highlights the complexities and strategic considerations involved in intra-division dealings. For the Padres, maintaining a competitive edge in the NL West is crucial, and Preller's ability to negotiate trades plays a key role in achieving this goal.
What's Next?
Looking ahead, there is potential for Preller to finally engage in a trade with the Diamondbacks, especially as Arizona undergoes a transition phase. The offseason presents an opportunity for Preller to complete his goal of trading with every MLB team. Such a move could further solidify his reputation as a proactive and strategic general manager. Observers will be keen to see if Preller can navigate the challenges of intra-division trades to enhance the Padres' roster further.
