It is hard to imagine, but the 2026 MLB season is heading into June. Clubs will begin evaluating their rosters and identifying their weaknesses. Then, decide which players from other teams to target at the trade deadline.
Of course, the media has the Padres linked to several players in trade rumors. Let’s break down why each player is the perfect addition to the roster.
Padres linked to Red Sox closer Aroldis Chapman
The Friars’ offense has struggled to produce all season. If you cannot put runs on the scoreboard, you need to keep the score close
on most nights. It is wise to build the best bullpen in baseball by adding another quality arm.
Dennis Lin of The Athletic (paid subscription required) was the first to report that the Padres have identified Boston Red Sox closer Aroldis Chapman as a possible trade deadline acquisition.
He has been a bright spot in an otherwise disappointing season in Boston. Chapman has posted a 0.51 ERA with 12 saves in 18 appearances. His addition to the ‘pen gives the Friars a lefty-righty combo that has the experience to close out games.
The “Cuban Missile” has a mutual option for the 2027 season; it is unlikely to be exercised by both sides. The asking price from Boston will not come cheap, as their front office will need to scout the Friars minor league system.
If your team has trouble scoring runs, acquiring Chapman lowers the odds of opponents mounting a comeback late in games.
Could the Padres participate in Skubal sweepstakes?
To the surprise of no one, Detroit Tigers Tarik Skubal has been the subject of trade rumors. The two-time Cy Young Award winner will become a free agent at the conclusion of this season. The Tigers are languishing at the bottom of the American League Central. They trail the Cleveland Guardians by 10 ½ games in the standings.
The Friars could join the chase for his services, but Skubal must officially hit the trade block first. That final decision by the Tigers could come closer to the deadline. First, their front office must determine the state of the roster before engaging in trade talks.
The Tigers have battled through numerous injuries to their starting rotation, but the organization is hoping the team will get on a roll and move up in the standings. If there are any signs of life, Skubal is staying in Detroit for the remainder of the season.
The left-hander has been out of the rotation since May 4, as he underwent surgery to remove a loose body from his throwing elbow. Skubal has begun rehabbing and could rejoin the Tigers’ starting rotation next month.
The Padres will need to see him pitch in actual games before any trade discussions take place.
Are the Rockies a perfect trade partner
If the Friars fail to acquire Chapman, they will turn their attention to Colorado Rockies reliever Antonio Senzatela. Another trade option that upgrades an already elite bullpen.
The right-hander converted to the ‘pen out of necessity because his arm could not handle the workload as a starting pitcher. Senzatela cemented his role as a dominant setup reliever, posting a 1.13 ERA over 32 innings this season. It is the perfect opportunity for the Rockies to move him and replenish their minor league system.
Mason Miller is clearly the best closer in baseball, and the addition of Senzatela to the mix makes the bullpen more balanced from the sixth inning on. Also, the Friars increase their chances of clinching a postseason berth.
Padres president of baseball operations and general manager A.J. Preller is constantly on the phone looking for a potential trade partner. He is always open to making a move if it helps the team win. So, no one should be surprised that the Friars are linked to several players as the trade market heats up.
Adding any of these pitching options would be a step in the right direction.
