Welcome to our series grading every member of the San Diego Padres’ 40-man roster. The roster being evaluated is current as of Oct. 18, prior to the end of the World Series. Because of that, it will include players who will be free agents once the postseason concludes. Each player will be graded on their performance in the 2026 season, including the playoffs. That performance will be weighted based on how much time the player spent with the team (availability is the best ability).
The Rule 5 Protectee
The Padres’ No.
30 prospect, Garrett Hawkins, was drafted by San Diego in 2021. In 119 games (237.2 IP) in the minors, the righty has posted a 3.86 ERA, 1.26 WHIP and 307 strikeouts. After undergoing Tommy John in 2024, Hawkins transitioned into the bullpen in 2025. That transition was seamless, with Hawkins posting a 1.50 ERA and 80 strikeouts across 60 innings of work.
Overall Grade: C+
Because of that production, Hawkins was added to the 40-man roster to protect him from the Rule 5 draft ahead of the 2026 season. He was believed to be a candidate to bolster the Padres’ pitching staff this year but struggled in the minors. His strikeout numbers were still solid with 65 Ks across 54 1/3 innings, but he couldn’t limit runs the same way he had in ‘25 (5.47 ERA).
The 26-year-old righty features an otherworldly fastball and serviceable slider and changeup to go along with it. That pitch mix makes him quite similar to former San Diego closer Robert Suarez. Hawkins’ command struggles in 2026 were the reason for his downfall. He allowed 13 extra walks this season in 5 1/3 less innings pitched.
Still, Hawkins remains a potential contributor for the Friars’ bullpen in 2027. With a solid performance in Spring Training, Hawkins could wind up on the Opening Day roster depending on which relievers the Padres end up retaining this offseason. With the potential departures of Jason Adam, Yuki Matsui and Adrian Morejon this offseason, Hawkins could become an important piece for San Diego in the years to come.
