Padres Offseason Target: Dan Haren

Once upon a time, Dan Haren was considered a premium pitcher. He had many great years in Oakland and Arizona. Haren has been a double-digit winner every year since 2005. He made three consecutive All-Star appearances between 2007 and 2009.

However, Haren’s value seems to be at an all-time low. The Angels hold a hefty $15 million option for 2013, and the team is shopping him around, in hopes of ridding themselves of a financial burden. Hopefully the Angels lose could become the Padres gain.

Sep 22, 2012; Anaheim, CA, USA; Los Angeles Angels pitcher Dan Haren (24) reacts after the sixth inning against the Chicago White Sox at the Angel Stadium of Anaheim. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-US PRESSWIRE

Haren is a pitcher that I have always admired. He takes the ball every fifth day, wins ballgames and is a tremendous competitor. Haren would instantly become the Padres staff leader and give them another arm capable of pitching 200 innings. Haren is durable and does bring postseason experience to the table.

Haren had a down year in 2012, pitching to a 4.33 ERA, the highest since 2006. His flyball and home run rates increased significantly, suggesting that Haren might be evolving to a flyball pitcher, which should play well in Petco Park, even with the amended fences.

Haren’s strikeout rates were also close to his career average, so it does appear that Haren’s stuff has not diminished too greatly. Haren should be available on a one-year deal, something that should appeal to San Diego. For what it is worth, MLBTradeRumors.com