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When asked if the 2024 San Diego Padres represent his finest work as general manager, A.J. Preller might modestly disagree. The current Padres are indeed strong, yet the 2023 squad, at least on paper, appeared more formidable.
However, the game isn’t played on paper or on the beloved laptops of analytically-minded executives. The 2023 Padres, who concluded with an 82-80 record and missed the playoffs, will be remembered as one of baseball’s great enigmas. The achievements of the 2024 team, which has moved on from key players like Juan Soto, Blake Snell, Josh Hader, Seth Lugo, and Michael Wacha, also carry their share of uncertainties.
One thing is unmistakable: Preller, known for his swift trading, has assembled a deeper roster and more effective offense, all while maintaining a payroll nearly $85 million less than the previous year. The 2024 Padres are not merely a star-studded lineup; they are a cohesive team filled with complementary players. Furthermore, Preller appears to have a much better rapport with this season’s manager, Mike Shildt, compared to last year’s, Bob Melvin.
It may be premature to throw a parade for the Padres, as they were 50-49 at the All-Star break and have managed a 13-11 record since a 19-4 streak that invigorated their season. Nevertheless, entering Tuesday, they held the top wild card spot in the NL, boasting playoff probabilities exceeding 90 percent. Should they reach the postseason, an offense that again features Fernando Tatis Jr., a rotation strengthened by the returns of Joe Musgrove and Yu Darvish, and a bullpen enhanced by deadline trades for Jason Adam, Tanner Scott, and Bryan Hoeing would position the team as a legitimate World Series contender.
Michael King (left) and Kyle Higashioka (right) have become key parts of the 2024 Padres. (Keith Gillett/IconSportswire via AP Images)
Preller’s management style has drawn scrutiny in the past; however, his boldness in the trade arena represents perhaps the Padres’ greatest
On the right side of the infield, he may be only marginally above replacement level from an analytical viewpoint. However, by batting leadoff, he establishes a tone with his energy and approach. Both Merrill and Profar contribute energy as well, with Merrill – arguably the team’s MVP – significantly improving upon Grisham’s performance in center field. With Tatis, Xander Bogaerts, and Manny Machado facing various physical challenges, the Padres relied on support from other players.
Much of what hampered the Padres last season can be attributed to sheer bad luck. They recorded a 9-23 record in one-run games, contrasting with a much better 20-17 this season, and a dismal 2-12 in extra innings compared to their current 8-1 record. Their .241 batting average with runners in scoring position ranked 26th in the league, an outcome that was baffling given their talent. As of Tuesday, the Padres were hitting .276 in those situations, placing them third in the league. Their strikeout rate was the lowest in the league, down nearly four percent from the previous year.
The bullpen has also seen marked improvements. Last season, Melvin struggled after Robert Suarez was placed on the injured list with an elbow issue on April 20, missing three months. This season, Preller ensured a steady influx of options for Shildt.
A waiver claim of Jeremiah Estrada from the Chicago Cubs last November turned out to be a low-profile yet successful acquisition. Adrian Morejon has finally justified the team’s investment of $22 million (half attributed to penalties) made in him when he came from Cuba. The acquisitions of Adam and Scott have solidified the bullpen, providing Shildt with three reliable relievers, including Suarez, prepared to pitch in any high-leverage situation. In contrast, Hader’s tendency to limit himself to one-inning stints constrained Melvin’s flexibility.
The 2023 Padres were driven by star players. This year’s roster features several valuable complementary pieces – Estrada, Morejon, Donovan Solano, and David Peralta. The two pitchers acquired for Soto, along with King and Thorpe, Randy Vasquez and Jhony Brito, have also added significant depth.
The atmosphere around the team seems improved, perhaps because fewer key players are preoccupied with personal concerns. Players such as Snell, Hader, Lugo, and Wacha were among those potentially heading for free agency on the 2023 Padres. Soto’s opportunity to enter the free agency market was still a year away, and for reasons unclear, he seldom displayed the joy and presence he had during his top years in Washington and now exhibits in New York.
Soto and his teammates did not act with the mentality of mercenaries. However, many who are set to become free agents this year – Scott, Higashioka, Donovan Solano, and Profar (again) – primarily occupy less significant roles. Whether this fosters greater team cohesion remains uncertain.
Determining how Melvin led the team to the National League Championship Series in 2022 only to underperform with mostly the same roster in 2023 is equally challenging. The impact of the tension between Preller and Melvin on the players remains impossible to quantify. Yet, when Preller allowed Melvin to depart for the San Francisco Giants, it opened the door for Shildt, who earned NL Manager of the Year honors with the St. Louis Cardinals in 2019.
Shildt is passionate about teaching the game and emphasizing its nuances, regularly conducting Ball Talk sessions with his players. The influence of his style is another intangible that invites discussion. Nonetheless, the Padres appear to play with a greater intensity than“`html
In contrast, the Los Angeles Dodgers have financial commitments of $203.6 million for the 2027 season and $151 million for 2030. Nevertheless, Padres fans appear to be unfazed. The team boasts the third highest per-game attendance and has surpassed 3 million in total attendance over the last three seasons.
In a highly competitive National League, the Padres’ prospects seem as promising as those of any other team. Preller consistently identifies talent, and this time he may have made the right selections.
(Top photo of A.J. Preller: Orlando Ramirez/Getty Images)
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Building a Winning Team: How A.J. Preller Revamped the 2024 San Diego Padres
A.J. Preller: The Architect of Success
A.J. Preller has been the General Manager of the San Diego Padres since 2014, bringing a fresh perspective and innovative strategies to the organization. Under his leadership, the Padres have transformed from a struggling franchise to a competitive team in Major League Baseball (MLB). His commitment to building a winning team is evident in the bold moves and strategic decisions made leading up to the 2024 season.
Key Strategies in Team Revamp
Preller’s approach to building the Padres focuses on several key strategies:
- Player Development: Investing in the farm system to cultivate homegrown talent.
- Strategic Trades: Acquiring star players to fill gaps and bolster the roster.
- International Scouting: Tapping into global markets to discover emerging talent.
- Data-Driven Decisions: Utilizing analytics to enhance player performance and game strategy.
Strengthening the Farm System
One of Preller’s most significant achievements has been strengthening the Padres’ farm system, which has consistently ranked among the top three in MLB from 2019 through 2023. This focus on player development has allowed the Padres to cultivate a pipeline of talent ready to contribute at the Major League level.
Investment in Youth
By prioritizing the development of young players, the Padres have seen several homegrown talents emerge as key contributors, including:
- **Fernando Tatis Jr.** – A dynamic shortstop with game-changing speed and power.
- **Mackenzie Gore** – A left-handed pitcher with a bright future ahead.
- **CJ Abrams** – A promising middle infielder with excellent defensive skills.
Strategic Trades and Acquisitions
Preller is known for his bold trades that have reshaped the Padres’ lineup. The 2024 season saw several pivotal moves:
Key Trades
| Player Acquired | From | Position | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Juan Soto | Washington Nationals | Outfielder | Power bat and elite on-base skills |
| Blake Snell | Tampa Bay Rays | Pitcher | Former Cy Young winner, ace potential |
Free Agent Signings
The Padres also made a splash in free agency, adding experienced veterans who provide leadership and depth. Notable signings for 2024 include:
- **Michael Conforto** – An outfielder with a strong offensive track record.
- **Zack Greinke** – A seasoned pitcher who brings playoff experience.
International Scouting Efforts
Preller’s commitment to international scouting has paid dividends. The Padres have successfully signed several international prospects who have become integral parts of the team. This strategy not only diversifies the team’s talent pool but also helps in identifying under-the-radar players with high potential.
Emerging Stars from the International Market
- **Luis Campusano** – A top catching prospect from the Dominican Republic.
- **Robert Hassell III** – A talented outfielder with a bright future.
Data-Driven Approach
In modern baseball, analytics play a crucial role in team success. Preller has embraced a data-driven approach, utilizing advanced metrics to inform player evaluations and game strategies.
Optimizing Performance
Some specific areas where data has influenced the Padres include:
- Batting Analytics: Using exit velocity and launch angle data to optimize hitters’ swings.
- Pitching Analytics: Implementing advanced scouting reports to enhance pitchers’ game plans.
Benefits of A.J. Preller’s Strategy
The combination of these strategies has led to numerous benefits for the Padres:
- Increased Competitiveness: The Padres are consistently competing for playoff spots.
- Fan Engagement: A more exciting team has led to increased attendance and merchandise sales.
- Long-term Success: A sustainable model focusing on player development and strategic acquisitions.
Case Studies: Success Stories
Several players have thrived under Preller’s regime, showcasing the effectiveness of his strategies:
Fernando Tatis Jr.
Since debuting, Tatis has become one of the faces of MLB, demonstrating the success of the Padres’ developmental program.
Blake Snell
After being acquired, Snell has solidified the rotation and provided the leadership needed in high-pressure situations.
First-Hand Experience: The Padres’ Culture Shift
Players and staff have noted a significant culture shift within the Padres organization since Preller’s arrival. This shift has fostered an environment of growth, accountability, and camaraderie, which is vital for building a winning team.
- Collaborative Environment: Open lines of communication between players, coaches, and management.
- Supportive Coaching: Coaches focus on individual player development while maintaining team goals.
Looking Ahead: The Future of the Padres
With A.J. Preller at the helm, the future looks bright for the San Diego Padres. His strategic vision and commitment to excellence set a strong foundation for sustained success in MLB.
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