Everyone is anxiously awaiting a major investment from A.J. Preller and the Padres’ front office to bolster the starting rotation. It feels inevitable that a move is coming, especially with the pitching market still loaded with quality options.
The expectation isn’t just fan-driven either. ESPN insider Jeff Passan recently noted that San Diego will remain “as involved as ever” in pitching discussions.
High-end names such as Framber Valdez, Ranger Suárez, Tatsuya Imai, and Zac Gallen are all still on the board. The Padres have maintained payroll flexibility, allowing them to allocate resources between starting pitching, first base, and potentially second base—particularly if they decide to move Jake Cronenworth. With that in mind, here are several pitchers San Diego could realistically be targeting.
ESPN analyst suggests Padres aren’t finished reshaping the rotation
Framber Valdez (projected contract: 4 years, $105 million)
Valdez could be a tremendous addition depending on how San Diego ultimately constructs its infield. He consistently generates ground balls at an elite rate (59.4%), a perfect fit for a Padres defense that excels in the field.
During the 2025 season, Valdez threw 192 innings with a 3.66 ERA. He relied heavily on a sinker, curveball, and changeup, using that trio nearly all the time to keep hitters off balance. Impressively, he posted those numbers while pitching in a stadium with a notoriously short left-field wall, suggesting his performance could improve even further in a more pitcher-friendly park.
The main concern with Valdez is his recent history of clubhouse friction. Earlier this year, he reportedly had a disagreement with catcher César Salazar over pitch selection that resulted in a crossed-up sequence.
Even with that caveat, Valdez would be a home-run acquisition for the Padres if they can land him on favorable terms.
Chris Bassitt (projected contract: 2 years, $30 million)
Bassitt represents a reliable short-term solution. Though he’s 36, he remains durable and effective, making 31 starts in 2025 while recording a 3.96 ERA.
Unlike many pitchers who succeed with limited, specialized arsenals, Bassitt leaned on versatility. Statcast data shows he used eight different pitches last season, helping him stay competitive despite his age.
While not a flashy move, Bassitt would provide valuable stability at the back end of the Padres’ rotation, an area in clear need of reinforcement.
Nick Martinez (projected contract: 1 year, $10 million)
Longtime Padres followers are familiar with Martinez, who spent two seasons with the club from 2022 to 2023. He could emerge as a sneaky depth option if the pitching market tightens.
Although Martinez struggled in 2025 with the Reds, his versatility is appealing. He can function as either a starter or reliever, giving manager Craig Stammen added flexibility.
Just as important, Martinez would likely be available on a low-risk, one-year deal as he looks to reestablish his value—an ideal scenario for San Diego as it plans its finances ahead of the 2026 season.