Padres could face a painful Jake Cronenworth trade-off to escape his burdensome contract

Friars on Base writer Brandon Glick argues that the San Diego Padres face difficult trade-offs if they attempt to move infielder Jake Cronenworth. After an injury-plagued 2026 season where he posted an 83 wRC+ and struggled in the postseason, Cronenworth has four years and nearly $50 million remaining on his seven-year, $80 million contract, substantially depressing his trade market value.

Glick contends that shedding Cronenworth's contract would likely require attaching a top prospect or absorbing salary, defeating the purpose of salary relief. Consequently, the writer argues San Diego's best path is keeping the two-time All-Star for 2027 and hoping he rebounds to his 2025 form, especially given the lack of an obvious internal replacement at second base.