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Will Joaquin Benoit Be Traded?

Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports

They Padres signed Joaquin Benoit last off-season to serve as the setup man to closer Huston Street, but is going to end the season as the team’s closer after they traded Street to the Los Angeles Angles. However, Benoit is 37-years-old, and doesn’t quite fit into the team’s youth movement.

With solid bullpen arms coming at a premium, teams will pay a high price to add someone like Benoit ( 1.58 ERA and 60 Ks in 50 games in 2014) to their bullpen. Many thought the Friars would trade him before the Trade Deadline when his stock was through the roof, but they decided to instead retain him for at least the current season. Of course, San Diego could always decide to sell him off during next year’s deadline, but it’s unknown if the 13-year veteran can replicate his success next season.

It may be best for the Padres to deal Benoit before the start of next season so that they can get a decent return. The Yankees, Tigers, Orioles, Dodgers, Giants among others, could all be interested in striking a deal for Benoit, as they each are in the market for bullpen support. The Padres likely won’t compete next season, and retaining Benoit makes little sense at the current time. He could get the team a few nice prospects that they can utilize in the future. For now, Benoit will be staying in San Diego but how long his stay will be is worth keeping an eye on.