The San Diego Padres are gearing up for the 2024 MLB season with some significant challenges ahead. After finishing 82-80 last year and missing the playoffs, the Padres made some notable moves during the offseason that have left them with a top-heavy roster.
One of the key changes for the Padres was the departure of on-base machine Juan Soto and the decision not to re-sign Cy Young winner Blake Snell. This has resulted in a reduced payroll of $95 million, making it a tough offseason for the team.
Despite having star players like Manny Machado, Xander Bogaerts, and Fernando Tatis Jr. locked in with long-term contracts, the Padres find themselves thin on the pitching side after losing key pitchers like Snell, Josh Hader, and others.
To address their defensive conundrum of having multiple natural shortstops in the lineup, the Padres have made adjustments, including moving Bogaerts to second base and starting Ha-Seong Kim at shortstop. This realignment aims to improve the team's overall defense and make the most of their defensive talents.
However, the logjam at the shortstop position has created challenges in finding the right fit for players like Jake Cronenworth and top prospect Jackson Merrill. With Merrill projected to rotate between designated hitter and the middle infield positions, the Padres face the dilemma of maximizing his talents while managing the roster effectively.
Furthermore, the Padres' lineup composition, with several outfielders also having shortstop backgrounds, highlights the team's need for a true slugging first baseman. Cronenworth's contract situation presents a challenge for potential trades, as his remaining contract value may deter other clubs from making a deal.
As the Padres head into the 2024 season with a lineup predominantly comprised of shortstops, they will need to navigate these roster complexities to compete effectively in a tough division that includes powerhouse teams like the Los Angeles Dodgers and NL champion Arizona Diamondbacks.
