Padres in the Mix in Latest Odds to Sign Shohei Ohtani in Free Agency
The San Diego Padres are at a crossroads following a disappointing 2023 season. It appears that they are ready to embark on a new path, one that deviates from their past practices of spending lavishly on marquee players.
This shift towards more prudent financial decisions seems like a smart choice after the rollercoaster ride of the past few seasons.
However, it doesn't mean the Padres would turn down a golden opportunity to make a significant signing. The hottest name in baseball right now is Shohei Ohtani, the two-way sensation, and he's a free agent.
Amidst all the buzz surrounding the Padres, they're considered potential contenders for Ohtani, according to MLB insider Jon Heyman.
9. Padres: They collect big stars. But it’s hard to see how they afford him. And they will need pitching, with Blake Snell, Seth Lugo and Josh Hader free agents. Odds: 25-1.
While the Padres may not be the front-runners in the race to sign Ohtani, they're not entirely out of the picture. They might have a seat at the table, albeit not a great one. The only teams the Padres are ahead of are the Seattle Mariners and the field. The odds may not be in their favor, but they're in the conversation.
The big question is whether the Padres will aggressively pursue Ohtani. Recent indications suggest that they might allow their left-handed ace, Blake Snell, to walk as he's anticipated to secure a blockbuster deal elsewhere.
But the real test will be how the Padres balance their pledge to be more prudent with the undeniable allure of a talent like Ohtani. We'll soon find out which path they choose to tread as they make decisions that could reshape the future of the franchise.
