Padres: Three closers San Diego could trade for not named Josh Hader

Padres could turn to a more cost-effective option in Archie Bradley

If the Padres aren’t looking to add a lot in terms of payroll – or are concerned with coming off even remotely solid young talent, former first-rounder Archie Bradley could be a fit in the late innings.

Last year, Bradley came to Cincinnati mid-season and was superb for the Reds, making a half-dozen appearances down the stretch. A former starter-turned-closer, the right-hander has a 2.95 ERA in his career out of the bullpen and works primarily with a plus fastball, as well as a pretty so-so curveball.

Still, last season he limited opponents to the lowest average exit velocity of his career. On a one-year, $6 million deal with the Philadelphia Phillies, it wouldn’t take much to grab Bradley at the deadline, especially if, once again, the Fightin’ Phils are treading water.

I’m not saying he’s your closer – because with Keone Kela, Mark Melancon and Drew Pomeranz, there’d definitely be guys in line ahead of him for the job. But he could add another high-velo arm to the mix as the Padres eye a title in 2021.