MLB writer calls former Blue Jays pitcher a perfect fit for the Padres

If the Padres weren’t able to retain Michael King, it would definitely be time for A.J. Preller to hit the panic button. Luckily, he doesn’t need to worry about that, as he inked King to a three-year, $75 million deal to guarantee at least a little bit of stability in the rotation.

But that doesn’t mean Preller can take his foot off the gas, as the Padres are still in need of at least two more back-end starting pitchers to go along with Nick Pivetta, Joe Musgrove, and Michael King. Preller can accomplish this via free agency or trade, though it would make more sense to fulfill the vacancy by free agency, as the team does not have the prospect capital to make an offer that would be worthwhile.

Andrew Simon believes RHP Chris Bassitt would be a perfect fit in San Diego 

There are plenty of budget options on the market that could give quality innings in 2026. One MLB expert believes the Padres would be best suited for one veteran right-hander in particular, who has thrown at least 150 innings in five straight seasons, as well as earning himself a World Series appearance in 2025.

When defining consistency, Bassitt has lived up to that definition over the past five seasons, as mentioned. Pitching over 150 innings each time, notching at least 10 wins, and posting a 3.66 ERA over the five seasons.

“A big-ticket free-agent solution would seem unlikely, and while you can never rule out A.J. Preller pulling off a significant trade, signing Bassitt would make a lot of sense as an alternative,” Simon wrote.

While Bassitt won’t overwhelm you with velocity, which seems to be a requirement for Preller. His ability to give you quality innings each season while staying healthy would be huge for the Padres, who look to find quality replacements for Dylan Cease and Yu Darvish.

If the Padres are serious about fixing the rotation, Bassitt on a two-year, $25–$30 million deal makes too much sense, not as a savior, but as the dependable adult who keeps the staff from unraveling.