This winter, the San Diego Padres have frequently been mentioned in trade discussions, with reports involving Nick Pivetta, Jake Cronenworth, Ramon Laureano, and even Mason Miller.
However, the Padres’ role as buyers this winter hasn’t really materialized. They have been connected to deals, but seldom in situations where the finest MLB-ready players are being acquired.
The most recent report from Z101 Digital’s Hector Gomez has changed that. This rumor claims that the Padres are now strong candidates to acquire Milwaukee Brewers star Freddy Peralta.
Padres tabbed as surprise contender for Freddy Peralta
“The Padres have emerged as a strong contender for a trade with the Brewers to acquire star RHP Freddy Peralta,” Gomez writes.
Even though this isn’t the definitive report, the Padres’ interest in Peralta is significant on its own.
Although the Padres are looking into the free-agent pitching market this winter and have re-signed Michael King, it is surprising that they are connected to Peralta, the best pitcher available.
It would be obvious for the Padres to add someone like Peralta, who just finished a season with a 2.70 ERA, an MLB-high 17 victories, and a very impressive 5.5 bWAR. For A.J. Preller and the Padres, Peralta would be a fantastic one-year rental.
With teams like the Boston Red Sox, New York Yankees, and Mets expressing interest, it won’t be inexpensive.
However, the Padres received excellent news when the Red Sox signed Ranger Suarez to a huge $130 million contract. Since the Padres no longer require starting pitching, they are probably out of the running for Peralta.
However, given the Padres’ urgent need for weapons to strengthen the rotation and Gomez’s suggestion that the Brewers are a serious competitor for Peralta, this is a possible trade worth considering.
