Padres Catcher Campusano Looks to Prove Himself in Spring Training

The 27-year-old is running out of time to cement his spot on the major league roster.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Luis Campusano, a top catching prospect for the San Diego Padres, is facing a crucial spring training as he looks to prove he belongs on the major league roster. After struggling to translate his success at the Triple-A level to the big leagues, Campusano is in a battle to earn the backup catcher role behind Freddy Fermin. With the Padres' roster largely set, this spring will be Campusano's best chance to show he can be a productive hitter at the MLB level and secure a spot on the team.

Why it matters

Campusano was once considered a top-3 prospect in the Padres' system, but has yet to establish himself as an everyday major leaguer. The Padres are aiming to build a World Series contender, and having a capable backup catcher who can contribute offensively would be a major boost for the lineup. If Campusano can't seize the opportunity this spring, he may run out of chances to prove he belongs in San Diego.

The details

Campusano has put up impressive numbers in Triple-A, including a .319 batting average, 7 home runs, and 40 RBIs in 2023. However, his struggles at the MLB level have been well-documented, as he has failed to make consistent contact and has not been a strong defensive catcher. This spring, Campusano will be competing with Freddy Fermin and Blake Hunt for the backup catcher role behind presumptive starter Fermin. The Padres are hoping Campusano can turn his minor league success into major league production.

  • Campusano was a top-3 prospect in the Padres' system in the past.
  • In 2023, Campusano hit .319 with 7 home runs and 40 RBIs in Triple-A.
  • Campusano is currently on the Padres' 40-man roster, but his spot is not guaranteed for the 2026 season.

The players

Luis Campusano

A 27-year-old catcher in the Padres' organization who was once a top-3 prospect but has struggled to translate his minor league success to the major league level.

Freddy Fermin

The expected starting catcher for the Padres in 2026, with Campusano competing for the backup role.

Blake Hunt

Another catcher in the Padres' system who is a potential backup option behind Fermin.

Ethan Salas

A top catching prospect in the Padres' system who is expected to make his MLB debut in the coming years.

A.J. Preller

The general manager of the San Diego Padres who recently signed a contract extension.

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What they’re saying

“If Campusano can turn into a legit hitting catcher with the Padres, then that gives them a massive boost at the bottom of the lineup.”

— Chris Spiering, Author (clutchpoints.com)

“Campusano is running out of time to establish himself. He does not want to be considered a minor leaguer for his entire career. If he does not turn it around in 2026, the odds of him ever doing it are slim to none.”

— Chris Spiering, Author (clutchpoints.com)

What’s next

If Campusano has a strong spring training, he could earn the backup catcher role behind Freddy Fermin to start the 2026 season. However, if he struggles, he may find himself back in the minor leagues as the Padres look to the future with prospects like Ethan Salas.

The takeaway

This spring training will be a critical juncture in Luis Campusano's career, as he looks to finally translate his minor league success to the major league level and cement his spot on the Padres' roster. With the team's roster largely set, this may be Campusano's last best chance to prove he belongs in San Diego.