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Padres Notes: A.J. Preller's Offseason Plan, Star Angry About WS, Top Prospect Struggles
Padres Notes: A.J. Preller's Offseason Plan, Star Angry About WS, Top Prospect Struggles
Preller's Offseason Plan
Padres general manager A.J. Preller has a busy offseason ahead of him. The Padres are coming off a disappointing season in which they finished third in the NL West with a record of 89-73. Preller needs to make some moves this offseason if the Padres are going to compete for a World Series title in 2023.
One of the biggest priorities for Preller this offseason will be to add starting pitching. The Padres have a solid rotation, but they need to add another starter to solidify the back end. Preller has been linked to several free-agent pitchers, including Justin Verlander, Jacob deGrom, and Kodai Senga.
Preller also needs to address the Padres' offense. The Padres have a lot of power, but they need to add some more contact hitters to their lineup. Preller has been linked to several free-agent hitters, including Brandon Nimmo, Andrew Benintendi, and Michael Conforto.
Star Angry About World Series
Padres star Fernando Tatis Jr. is reportedly angry about the team’s decision to pull him from Game 2 of the World Series. Tatis was removed from the game in the fourth inning after he made a diving stop at shortstop and appeared to injure his shoulder.
Tatis was visibly upset when he was pulled from the game, and he reportedly went into the clubhouse and slammed his helmet. Tatis is now reportedly considering asking for a trade from the Padres.
The Padres have not commented on Tatis's reported anger, but it is clear that the situation is not ideal. Tatis is one of the best players in baseball, and the Padres need him to be healthy and happy if they are going to compete for a World Series title.
Top Prospect Struggles
Padres top prospect Robert Hassell III is struggling in the Arizona Fall League. Hassell is hitting just .182 with one home run and five RBIs in 15 games.
Hassell is one of the Padres' top prospects, and the team is hoping that he can develop into a star. However, Hassell's struggles in the AFL are a bit concerning.
The Padres are still hoping that Hassell can reach his potential, but they may need to be patient with him. Hassell is still only 21 years old, and he has a lot of time to develop.