The San Diego Padres entered the 2024 NLDS with MLB’s hottest hitter, Fernando Tatis Jr., a loaded lineup, and enough pitching depth to realistically challenge the emerging dynasty in Los Angeles.
Holding a 2-1 series lead, the Padres had their destiny in their own hands. One more win could’ve fueled a potential World Series push. But their offense sputtered, the Dodgers clamped down, and San Diego’s Cinderella run came to an abrupt end.
Now, the road ahead is uncertain. A brewing ownership dispute has put financial pressure on the franchise, forcing A.J. Preller to juggle a bloated payroll with limited resources instead of the aggressive spending seen in past years.
There’s been consistent speculation that either Dylan Cease or Michael King will be traded before the 2025 season. Both were outstanding last year, but Cease, in particular, feels like a ticking clock as he approaches a hefty free agency payday—one the Padres likely can’t afford.
What’s delaying their departure? A lack of viable replacements. San Diego was heavily linked to Roki Sasaki, whose arrival could’ve pushed Cease out. But when Sasaki signed with the Dodgers, trade talks cooled.
However, the latest free-agent pitcher tied to the Padres could be the key to unlocking a long-anticipated move at the top of their rotation.