Padres Sign Outfielder Alex Verdugo to Minor-League Deal

Left-handed hitter will compete for roster spot in minor-league camp

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The San Diego Padres have signed veteran outfielder Alex Verdugo to a minor-league contract. Verdugo, 29, will report to the Padres' minor-league camp and compete for a spot on the major-league roster. The left-handed hitter has previous MLB experience with the Dodgers, Red Sox, Yankees, and Braves, batting .283 with a .770 OPS from 2019-2023 before struggling last season.

Why it matters

The Padres have been interested in Verdugo for years and see him as a potential low-risk, high-upside addition to their outfield depth. If Verdugo can regain his previous form, he could provide the team with a versatile left-handed bat and solid defensive play.

The details

Verdugo hit just .239 with a .585 OPS in 56 games for the Braves last season before being released in July. However, the 29-year-old has shown he can be a productive major-league hitter, batting .283 with a .770 OPS from 2019-2023 with the Dodgers and Red Sox. The Padres are hoping a change of scenery and a minor-league deal will help Verdugo rediscover his swing and earn a spot on their big-league roster.

  • Verdugo agreed to the minor-league contract on March 1, 2026.

The players

Alex Verdugo

A 29-year-old left-handed hitting outfielder with previous MLB experience with the Dodgers, Red Sox, Yankees, and Braves.

San Diego Padres

A professional baseball team based in San Diego, California that competes in Major League Baseball's National League West division.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Verdugo will report to the Padres' minor-league camp and compete for a spot on the major-league roster during spring training.

The takeaway

The Padres are taking a low-risk flier on the veteran Verdugo, hoping he can regain his previous form and provide outfield depth and a left-handed bat to their lineup if he makes the big-league club.