The 2025 MLB trade deadline is a time for the San Diego Padres to add a much-needed left fielder to the mix. They have a clear need, and with the Padres expected to buy at the deadline, it’s only a matter of what left fielder they plan to target.
According to a new report from Dennis Lin of The Athletic, the Padres are expected to target a star in left field if one becomes available. “History suggests he’d love a star.” Lin wrote. “The current market indicates there may not be many stars available.”
While A.J. Preller is expected to target a star player for the Padres in left field, the options aren’t bountiful. Boston Red Sox outfielders Jarren Duran and Wilyer Abreu are two options the team could look to add, but neither is guaranteed to be up for trade.
Luis Robert Jr. might not be considered a star, despite having 38 home runs in 2023, as he’s hitting below .200 this season and is struggling mightily at the plate for the Chicago White Sox.
Minnesota Twins superstar Byron Buxton would be a dream pickup, but the Twins aren’t expected to sell anytime soon. Even players like Taylor Ward from the Los Angeles Angels might not be available.
All that to say, even though the Padres are targeting a star for their left field spot, they may not have any options available to acquire. San Diego has to figure something out by the deadline, and based on the limited stars, they may have to look elsewhere.
But if a star outfielder became available, the Padres would be all over those trade negotiations. Preller and the Padres are ready to invest in the team again this season, and a star left fielder would bolster an offense that has been disappointing this season.
