Veteran star has found a fresh start with the San Diego Padres, and early signs suggest he’s making the most of it.
Despite still being under team control for several more seasons, the Chicago White Sox chose not to tender him a contract on November 25, 2024, making him a free agent. Just a few weeks later, the Padres scooped him up on a one-year, $1.6 million deal—an affordable move that’s already paying dividends.
He turns 29 on April 23, still has two years of arbitration eligibility remaining and won’t hit free agency again until 2028. A former second-round pick, he spent parts of four seasons with the White Sox after debuting in June 2021. In 2023, he slashed .233/.303/.357 with 24 doubles, a triple, 10 home runs, 45 RBIs, and two stolen bases over 501 plate appearances.
Known for his left-handed power, Sheets offers defensive flexibility by playing both corner outfield spots and first base, in addition to serving as a designated hitter.
His impressive showing in spring training (.315/.373/.704 with six homers and 13 RBIs) earned him a spot on the Padres’ Opening Day roster. He wasted no time making an impact—delivering a pinch-hit home run in his first at-bat with San Diego, helping the team to a 7-4 win over the Braves.
As he continues to settle in with the Padres, Sheets is quickly becoming a valuable piece of their lineup and a potential steal at his current contract value.