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Padres need a left-field upgrade before settling for Austin Hays or Ramón Laureano

Before bringing back Austin Hays or Ramón Laureano, the Padres should explore free agency and trades for a dependable everyday left fielder.

By Tremayne Person · Friars on Base

Published: Saturday, 31 October 2026 at 3:45 PM

Key Things to Know

Writer Tremayne Person argues the Padres should pursue an upgrade in left field before reuniting with familiar veterans.
The writer suggests San Diego look into trade possibilities for Jarren Duran or Steven Kwan.
Free agent target Randy Arozarena is projected to cost between $110 million and $130 million.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Writer Tremayne Person argues that the San Diego Padres should pursue an ambitious left-field upgrade this offseason rather than immediately settling for reunions with Austin Hays or Ramón Laureano. The article suggests San Diego needs an established everyday hitter in left field to stop rotating the position as the team targets a championship heading into the 2027 season.

While free agent Randy Arozarena could cost between $110 million and $130 million, Person recommends the Padres explore trades for Boston's Jarren Duran or Cleveland's Steven Kwan. The piece notes Laureano is recovering from a season-ending torn labrum suffered in June.

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Padres need a left-field upgrade before settling for Austin Hays or Ramón Laureano

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