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Let’s review the 2024 season for the San Diego Padres, the questions the team needs to address this offseason, and the early perspective for 2025.
Read more: 2024 MLB offseason previews: What’s next for the Orioles, Astros, Phillies and more?
Postseason outcome
The Padres achieved a decisive sweep against the Braves in the wild-card round but fell to the Dodgers in the National League Division Series (NLDS) after five games. They lost a tightly contested Game 1 but put forth an impressive performance in the electrifying Game 2. After securing a 6-5 victory in a buzzing Petco Park during Game 3, the Padres took a 2-1 series lead, only for the Dodgers to respond with consecutive shutout wins in Games 4 and 5.
Offensively, the postseason was led by Fernando Tatis with a stunning 1.500 OPS, while Jackson Merrill (.833) and Kyle Higashioka (1.062) also made notable contributions. David Peralta had significant input as well. Conversely, Luis Arraez struggled badly, finishing with a .226 average, and both Jake Cronenworth (.136) and Xander Bogaerts (.167) had disappointing performances. Ultimately, the Padres’ offense ended the postseason with a staggering 24 straight innings without a run scored.
In the starting rotation, Dylan Cease experienced the most difficulty, as he was hit hard in both Game 1 and Game 4, which resulted in losses for the Padres. However, Michael King and Yu Darvish performed well, even though they often lacked adequate run support. The bullpen largely held up its end of the bargain. The absence of Joe Musgrove in October proved detrimental and may have been a pivotal factor in this fiercely contested series.
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Despite signing a one-year deal, the player topped the team in OPS and runs scored. Manny Machado enjoyed another impressive season, leading the Padres in home runs and RBIs. Rookie Jackson Merrill far surpassed expectations, finishing with a .292 batting average, 24 home runs, and an .826 OPS.
Two offseason signings significantly strengthened the pitching staff. Michael King, obtained in the Juan Soto trade, led the Padres with the best ERA. Dylan Cease, who joined from the White Sox in a March deal, ranked first on the team in innings pitched, wins, and strikeouts. The relief pitching unit was headed by Robert Suarez, who distinguished himself as one of the league’s top closers in his inaugural season in this role.
Things that went wrong
Xander Bogaerts, after a promising first year with the Padres, faced a left shoulder fracture this season, resulting in a less than stellar performance (.688 OPS) during the 111 games he participated in. At 32 years old, the team depends on him to rebound effectively next season, especially as he has nine years left on his hefty $280 million contract.
The primary disappointments on the pitching front stemmed from injuries rather than underperformance, with both Yu Darvish and Joe Musgrove failing to reach 100 innings pitched. The team struggled to fill this gap, as Matt Waldron (26 starts, 4.79 ERA) and Randy Vazquez (20 starts, 4.87 ERA) did little more than provide innings.
Offseason plans
In general, the Padres’ roster is in strong condition heading into 2025. With a payroll that placed them in the middle tier this season, the team has few weaknesses. Bringing in a starting pitcher, an outfielder, and a catcher would be advantageous, yet there are not many obvious deficiencies to address.
The infield boasts multiple players who are secured under team contracts for several years. Luis Arraez, while unorthodox as a first baseman due to his average hitting and lack of power, remains effective. Bogaerts will stay at second base, while Ha-Seong Kim and Machado will occupy shortstop and third base, respectively. Jake Cronenworth serves as a valuable utility player, capable of sharing first base duties with Arraez and covering other positions when needed. However, the team faces uncertainty at catcher; after a significant drop in performance this season, Luis Campusano may form a catching duo in 2025, but will require a dependable partner.
San Diego is well-positioned with two of the three outfield positions secured. Although Fernando Tatis Jr. has yet to reach his full potential since missing the entirety of the 2022 season, even a less-than-stellar version of him remains highly effective. He will handle right field duties, while Merrill will take center field. Although Profar is set to enter free agency, after a surprising and successful 2024, there seems to be mutual interest in maintaining the relationship.
The rotation will see the return of three pivotal members: Cease, King, and Darvish. Despite Waldron and Vazquez having experienced challenges at times this year, they are capable of competing for the final spot in the rotation. Given Darvish’s age of 38, and Musgrove’s upcoming absence in 2025 due to Tommy John surgery, along with the lack of top-tier pitching prospects in San Diego’s minor league system, it would be prudent for the team to pursue a starting pitcher through trade
Ethan Salas is regarded as the top international player in the 2023 signing class. He is expected to be an exceptional defensive catcher, although his hitting skills are still developing. At just 18 years old, Salas will require at least two more seasons in the minor leagues.
Another prominent prospect is shortstop Leodalis De Vries, who is arguably the leading talent in the 2024 international signing period. At only 17, De Vries is recognized as a genuine five-tool player. Like Salas, he will also need a minimum of two additional years in minor league development.
Goals for 2025
Even the Padres’ front office must concede that the Dodgers have a firm grip on the NL West. Indeed, Los Angeles has claimed the division title in 11 of the last 12 seasons, with San Diego’s last NL West championship occurring in 2006. Consequently, the primary objective for the Padres in 2025 should be to reach the postseason. Several teams have made significant playoff runs from wild-card positions, including the Padres, who advanced to the NLCS in 2022.
Challenging Los Angeles should remain a key part of San Diego’s goals and strategies, though it will be a tough task to overcome a team that has consistently recorded a winning percentage of .600 or better over the past six seasons.
Fantasy focus
Tatis is set to spearhead San Diego’s presence in fantasy leagues, expected to be drafted towards the end of Round 1 or the beginning of Round 2. Following him will be Cease, who is anticipated to be viewed as a low-end ace, with Merrill and the highly dependable Machado also being selected. These three players are projected to be picked around Round 5.
The remaining Padres are likely to be mid-round selections, with Suarez, Bogaerts, and Kim falling into this category. Darvish will emerge as a boom-or-bust option during the latter part of drafts.
2024 San Diego Padres: Season Recap, Offseason Outlook, and Goals for 2025
2024 Season Overview
The 2024 season for the San Diego Padres was a rollercoaster ride filled with highs and lows, showcasing the team’s resilience and potential. The Padres entered the season with strong expectations following their previous playoff appearances, but faced numerous challenges throughout the year.
Key Performance Highlights
- Star Players Shine: Despite the struggles, key players like Manny Machado and Fernando Tatis Jr. delivered impressive performances, making significant contributions to the team’s overall success.
- Pitching Staff Improvements: The Padres’ pitching staff showed marked improvement, with several pitchers achieving career-high strikeout rates and ERA reductions.
- Defensive Plays: The team excelled defensively, ranking in the top third of the league in defensive runs saved, which was crucial during tight matches.
Season Statistics
| Statistic | 2024 Value | 2023 Value |
|---|---|---|
| Wins | 87 | 90 |
| Losses | 75 | 72 |
| Batting Average | .258 | .260 |
| ERA | 3.75 | 3.85 |
Challenges Faced in 2024
Despite the highlights, the Padres faced significant challenges that affected their playoff aspirations:
- Injuries: Key players suffered injuries at critical moments, leading to inconsistent lineups. The absence of these stars highlighted the lack of depth in certain positions.
- Offensive Slumps: Throughout the season, the team experienced prolonged slumps, especially during crucial series against divisional rivals.
- Coaching Adjustments: Mid-season coaching changes led to uncertainty within the team, impacting on-field performance and player morale.
Offseason Outlook
The offseason is a critical period for the San Diego Padres as they look to bolster their roster and address the challenges faced in 2024. Here are key focus areas:
Roster Adjustments
- Free Agency Targets: The Padres are expected to pursue high-impact free agents to strengthen both the batting lineup and pitching rotation. Names like Shohei Ohtani have been circulating as potential targets.
- Trade Opportunities: To enhance team depth, the Padres may explore trade options, particularly in the outfield and bullpen.
- Player Development: Investing in homegrown talent will be essential, with the Padres’ farm system showing promise with several standout prospects ready to make an impact.
Coaching Decisions
Following mixed results, the Padres will likely evaluate their coaching staff. Retaining a core of successful coaches while seeking innovative minds to improve strategy and player development is crucial.
Goals for the 2025 Season
As the Padres prepare for the 2025 season, setting clear and measurable goals will be vital:
Team Performance Goals
- Playoff Qualification: The primary goal is to secure a playoff spot, focusing on consistent performance throughout the season.
- Win the National League West: With strong competition, reclaiming the division title will require enhanced performance against rivals such as the Los Angeles Dodgers.
- Improve Offensive Consistency: A key focus will be on boosting offensive output, particularly in clutch situations.
Player Development Goals
- Maximize Young Talent: The Padres aim to integrate young players into the roster effectively, ensuring a balance of experience and youth.
- Injury Prevention Programs: Establishing comprehensive injury prevention strategies will help maintain player health and availability.
Fan Engagement and Community Connection
The Padres recognize the importance of their fan base and are committed to enhancing engagement:
Community Outreach Programs
- Youth Clinics: Offering baseball clinics for young fans to nurture talent and foster a love for the game.
- Charity Events: Continuing to support local charities through events and fundraising initiatives will strengthen community ties.
Enhancing Game Day Experience
- Stadium Improvements: Investing in stadium upgrades to enhance the fan experience, including improved concessions and seating arrangements.
- Interactive Fan Experiences: Creating more interactive experiences during games to engage fans of all ages.
Conclusion
The San Diego Padres have laid a solid foundation in the 2024 season, facing challenges head-on while maintaining a competitive spirit. With a proactive approach to the offseason and a clear vision for 2025, the Padres look to reclaim their status as a premier team in Major League Baseball.
