Padres Sign Trio of Free Agents

Outfielder Nick Castellanos, pitchers Griffin Canning and Germán Márquez join San Diego roster.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The San Diego Padres have agreed to terms with free agent outfielder Nick Castellanos and right-handed pitchers Griffin Canning and Germán Márquez, according to a person familiar with the deals. The signings bolster the Padres' lineup and pitching staff as they aim to contend in the National League West division.

Why it matters

The Padres have been active in free agency this offseason, looking to build on their success from the previous season and challenge the Los Angeles Dodgers and San Francisco Giants for NL West supremacy. Adding proven offensive and pitching talent like Castellanos, Canning, and Márquez could help the Padres take the next step as a franchise.

The details

Castellanos, a former All-Star with the Philadelphia Phillies, will provide a power bat in the middle of the Padres' lineup. Canning and Márquez are both former All-Stars who will slot into the starting rotation, strengthening San Diego's pitching depth.

  • The deals were agreed to on Saturday, February 15, 2026.

The players

Nick Castellanos

A veteran outfielder who has been an All-Star and has consistently been one of the top power hitters in the National League.

Griffin Canning

A right-handed starting pitcher who has been an All-Star and is known for his strong command and ability to miss bats.

Germán Márquez

A right-handed starting pitcher who has been an All-Star and is known for his electric stuff and ability to eat innings.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“These signings demonstrate our commitment to putting the best possible team on the field and giving our fans a chance to see a contender every year.”

— A.J. Preller, Padres General Manager (San Diego Union-Tribune)

What’s next

The Padres will hold a press conference on Monday to formally introduce the new players and discuss their plans for the upcoming season.

The takeaway

The Padres have made a strong push in free agency to bolster their roster and challenge the Dodgers and Giants in the NL West. Adding impact players like Castellanos, Canning, and Márquez shows the team's commitment to building a sustainable contender in San Diego.