Why were the Padres willing to listen to trade offers for pricier veterans last offseason?

 The San Diego Padres were willing to listen to trade offers for some of their pricier veterans during the 2023-2024 offseason primarily to address financial concerns and improve roster flexibility. Here are some of the key reasons:


1. Payroll Management:

The Padres had one of the highest payrolls in Major League Baseball in 2023, exceeding $250 million. This high spending, combined with missing the playoffs, likely led the organization to reconsider its financial strategy. Trading expensive veterans could help reduce payroll and keep them below the luxury tax threshold, avoiding additional financial penalties.



2. Farm System Rebuilding:

The Padres depleted their farm system in recent years by trading prospects to acquire big-name players. Trading veterans for younger, cost-controlled players could help replenish their prospect pool and build for sustained long-term success.



3. Disappointing 2023 Season:

Despite their high payroll and star-studded roster, the Padres underperformed in 2023, finishing 82-80 and missing the playoffs. This prompted a reassessment of their roster construction, leading to a willingness to move high-cost players who didn’t deliver the expected results.



4. Upcoming Free Agents:

Several players were set to hit free agency after the 2024 season, such as Juan Soto (if not extended). By trading veterans early, the Padres could avoid losing players for minimal return while potentially acquiring assets to reshape their roster.



5. Focus on Core Talent:

The Padres may have wanted to build around their younger, long-term stars like Fernando Tatis Jr., Manny Machado (extended), and Xander Bogaerts while using trades to create financial flexibility to address other areas of need, such as pitching depth.




By listening to offers for pricier veterans, the Padres aimed to balance immediate competitiveness with financial sustainability and future planning.


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