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Predicting the biggest free-agent regrets of the Padres’ offseason

By Gabrielle Starr

Jul 24, 2021; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Tampa Bay Rays designated hitter Nelson Cruz (23) flies out against the Cleveland Indians in the ninth inning at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 24, 2021; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Tampa Bay Rays designated hitter Nelson Cruz (23) flies out against the Cleveland Indians in the ninth inning at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports /
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Padres Nelson Cruz
Jul 24, 2021; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Tampa Bay Rays designated hitter Nelson Cruz (23) flies out against the Cleveland Indians in the ninth inning at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Nelson Cruz

Since the National League implemented the DH this year, the market for Nelson Cruz expanded considerably. At one point, the Dodgers and Padres were rumored to be the final contenders for the veteran power-hitter, who’s averaged 39 home runs per 162 games over his 17-year career.

Dating back to his first full MLB season in 2009, Cruz has four 40+ home-run seasons and eight with 30 or more, including his age-40 season last year. Even though he’ll turn 42 this summer, he’s still got more power in his bat than plenty of players half his age.

Having Cruz as a DH would have been great no matter what, but especially now that Tatis is sidelined for months. The young superstar led the NL with 42 home runs, but was the only player on the Padres roster with more than 30, meaning Cruz would have been his runner-up.

Instead, Cruz signed a one-year deal with the Washington Nationals for $15M, with a mutual option for the following season.

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