Padres’ latest free-agent departures put pressure on A.J. Preller to deliver real upgrades

Tremayne Person writes for Friars on Base that the departure of free agents Miguel Andújar, Lucas Giolito, and Griffin Canning increases the pressure on San Diego Padres president of baseball operations A.J. Preller to make meaningful roster upgrades. Andújar declined his half of a mutual option, while the Padres declined their sides on Giolito and Canning, creating clear openings on the roster heading into the offseason.

Person argues that San Diego must prioritize durable starting pitching, suggesting potential targets like Kevin Gausman, Chris Bassitt, or Freddy Peralta. In addition to rotation durability, the writer emphasizes that the Padres should establish clearer positional roles across left field, designated hitter, and first base rather than relying on awkward fits.