1 departing Yankees player who could be perfect for the Padres after early October exit

The San Diego Padres roster is going to look very different for the 2026 season, as they have five guys set to hit the open market, along with others set to either opt out of their contracts or be traded. The team will even be sending out a search team for a new manager, as Mike Shildt announced his shocking retirement today.

The Padres skipper stepped away with two years left on his contract, stating that the job took a toll on him. “The grind of the baseball season has taken a severe toll on me mentally, physically, and emotionally,” Shildt said.

Padres should be all in on Yankees outfielder Trent Grisham this offseason

Not only is there going to be a retooled roster, but there will also be a new man in charge of it all. The Padres aren’t the only team enduring a roster overhaul, as the New York Yankees have it way worse with nine guys who are unrestricted free agents.

Perhaps AJ Preller should pounce on former Yankees as they depart NYC, as there is one in particular that would fit perfectly in San Diego.

Along with Juan Soto, the 28-year-old Grisham was traded to the Yankees back in 2023. During his time in the Bronx, Grisham struggled in 2024, failing to crack a batting average above .200 and only obtaining a replacement-level 0.4 bWAR.

Fast forward to his contract year in 2025, and Grisham used every bit of it to prove he is worth a long-term contract. The center fielder put up very impressive power numbers, slashing .235/.348/.464 with a career-high 34 home runs.

The Padres could land Grisham at a very affordable price, as his market value sits at only $12 million. Executives believe the deal will be three years in length. 

Fernando Tatis Jr., Jackson Merrill, and Ramón Laureano patrol the three outfield positions. But it seems obvious that the designated hitter spot is going to become available, as Luis Arráez and Ryan O’Hearn are set to depart. Why not have either Laureano or Grisham man that spot in the lineup?

A reunion in San Diego makes perfect sense, as it would add another solid bat to a team that desperately needed the big swing in October.