Jazz Chisholm's Yankees uncertainty could lure Padres into a familiar offseason trap

If there is one thing A.J. Preller isn't afraid of doing, it's adding players to the Padres' roster who may not particularly be needed, but would help the team regardless. The President of Baseball Operations might find himself in the same scenario this offseason.

Jazz Chisholm Jr. is coming off an interesting season with the Yankees. He took a dip in several offensive categories, which ultimately ended in a disappointing walk year for him. Chisholm Jr. still stole 41 bases and scored 69 runs, but his final line fell below his expectations.

Now a free agent, Chisholm Jr. would love to return to the Bronx, but the organization and the fans might feel a different way, especially if the price he demands is too steep. He's put together a great career and can still provide value to whatever team signs him, which is where the Padres step in.

San Diego doesn't necessarily need Chisholm Jr., who can play second and third base. The Friars have Jake Cronenworth and Manny Machado already, but Preller strikes us as someone who will overpay for a player still in his prime years, whether there is a concrete spot for him or not.

Padres fans should be excited at the potential of acquiring Chisholm Jr., but it may hit us with some déjà vu.

Jazz Chisholm Jr.'s free agency offers shades of Padres signing Xander Bogaerts four seasons ago

Remember when the Friars signed Xander Bogaerts for 11 years and $280 million? We're not even halfway through that contract, but the Padres are already seeking avenues to dump that contract. Who could blame them? Bogaerts' leg have slowed down, as has his consistency at the plate.

The problem with Chisholm Jr. here is that he is likely to ask for a gargantuan deal, just like Bogaerts'. He plays multiple positions, has two All-Stars to his name, and is among the quicker infielders in baseball. The first three-to-four years of Chisholm Jr.'s upcoming contract will likely be worthwhile. But what happens when he turns 33 years old and declines significantly, similar to Bogaerts?

Chisholm Jr. already showed us this year that he is capable of falling off. But will that be enough to repel Preller from offering a deal? San Diego needs to make a big splash on the market for a bat this winter, but we'll see how deep Preller will go into his pockets. A hefty Chisholm Jr. deal could be in the cards if he wants to get risky again.

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