Padres Manager Hints at Potential Offseason Signing

Padres president A.J. Preller known for surprise moves, could add another big name to roster

Apr. 12, 2026 at 4:52pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a baseball game or match, with sharp, overlapping planes of color representing the dynamic action on the field and the competitive spirit of the NL West division.The Padres' offseason moves have set the stage for an intense NL West battle, with the team's manager hinting at more surprises to come.San Diego Today

San Diego Padres manager Craig Stammen hinted in a recent interview that the team may make another big signing during the offseason, despite already making several key acquisitions this winter. Stammen praised the team's current roster but noted that Padres president of baseball operations A.J. Preller "always has a trick up his sleeve," suggesting the possibility of an unexpected move before the 2026 season.

Why it matters

The Padres are looking to build on their near-miss playoff run in 2025 and challenge the powerhouse Los Angeles Dodgers and San Francisco Giants in the NL West. Any additional high-profile signing could give them a boost and help them take the next step towards a championship.

The details

The Padres have already made several notable offseason moves, including re-signing pitcher Michael King to a 3-year, $75 million contract and signing versatile infielder Sung-Mun Song from the KBO on a 4-year, $15 million deal. They also added veteran slugger Miguel Andujar, likely as a designated hitter and pinch-hitter. However, the team may still need to add another starting pitcher, with concerns about the injury histories of Joe Musgrove and Michael King.

  • The Padres fell short in the playoffs in 2025.
  • The team has been active this offseason, making several key acquisitions.

The players

Craig Stammen

The manager of the San Diego Padres, who hinted at the possibility of another big offseason signing.

A.J. Preller

The president of baseball operations for the San Diego Padres, known for making unexpected moves to improve the team.

Michael King

A pitcher the Padres re-signed to a 3-year, $75 million contract this offseason.

Sung-Mun Song

A versatile infielder the Padres signed from the KBO on a 4-year, $15 million deal.

Miguel Andujar

A veteran slugger the Padres added to their lineup, likely as a designated hitter and pinch-hitter.

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What they’re saying

“We've got a competitive lineup from top to bottom. Is it the final roster? A.J. Preller always has a trick up his sleeve.”

— Craig Stammen, Padres Manager

What’s next

The Padres will continue to monitor the free agent and trade markets for potential additions to their roster, especially in the starting pitching department, as they look to build a championship-caliber team for the 2026 season.

The takeaway

The Padres have been active this offseason, but their manager's comments suggest the team may not be done making moves. With a reputation for surprise signings, the Padres could add another high-profile player to their roster before the start of the 2026 season as they aim to unseat the Dodgers and Giants in the NL West.