The San Diego Padres are facing a daunting winter, and even a modest assessment suggests this offseason will be one of their most challenging in recent memory. The club must overhaul its starting rotation after losing several key arms. Dylan Cease has already departed for the Toronto Blue Jays, Michael King has reached free agency, and Yu Darvish is expected to miss the entire 2026 season. Losing all three at once leaves a massive void at the top and middle of the rotation.
With that level of attrition, San Diego will almost certainly prioritize adding one or two starting pitchers in the coming months. Without reinforcements, the Padres risk entering next season without enough reliable innings to compete in a demanding National League landscape. The rotation concerns alone would be enough to dominate the offseason agenda, but they are far from the only issues facing the front office.
Offensively, the Padres are also projected to explore upgrades at first base and designated hitter. Both Luis Arraez and Ryan O’Hearn are available on the open market, and the team could view either as a potential fit depending on cost and roster flexibility. Beyond the everyday lineup, depth remains another concern. San Diego is expected to pursue bench pieces who can step in if injuries strike any of their core starters over the course of a long season.
Despite the multiple needs, the starting rotation remains the primary focus. Several intriguing pitchers are available, but The Athletic’s Jim Bowden believes a familiar face could make sense for San Diego. Bowden highlighted the possibility of a reunion with Nick Martinez, noting his value both on and off the field.
“Martinez is a plus in the clubhouse and his versatility is very valuable. The Padres, Giants, Mets, and Braves are potential landing spots for Martinez.”
Martinez previously spent the 2022 and 2023 seasons with the Padres before opting out of his contract and signing with the Cincinnati Reds. His ability to move seamlessly between the rotation and bullpen makes him an appealing option, particularly for a team seeking flexibility. However, San Diego will not have a clear path, as Bowden also points to interest from the San Francisco Giants, New York Mets, and Atlanta Braves, setting the stage for competition if the Padres pursue a reunion.