Padres’ clearest 2026 trade chip is a name fans didn’t see coming

There is one uncomfortable reality for the San Diego Padres' offseason: Their most clear-cut 2026 trade asset isn't some non-impact role player, nor is it a top prospect who has been blocked by talent.

This is why the inclusion of Jake Cronenworth's name among its 2026 trade candidates raises some eyebrows in San Diego. Many see Cronenworth, as well as others on this list, less as a mainstay and more as a mid-level, long term contract that clubs will trade when they want to realign their books, but not blow up the entire roster. MLB.com writer Mark Feinsand noted Cronenworth as the Padres' representation on this list, because of Cronenworth's bounce-back season at the plate, as well as the flexibility that his contract may offer.

Jake Cronenworth is quietly becoming the Padres’ most logical 2026 trade chip

Cronenworth had certainly made it difficult to consider him simply as a contract that the Padres are looking to shed on the field. After experiencing a decline after back-to-back All Star appearances in 2021-22, Cronenworth had a very good 2025 season; he finished with a .744 OPS and his highest on base percentage (.367) in his career over 135 games.

However, the discomfort lies in the dollars and the years. Cronenworth is signed for $60 million over the next 5 seasons. With a front office trying to create more innings, add depth to the bench and maintain as much financial flexibility as possible, the contract becomes a source of stress.

To another club however, Cronenworth appears to be an ideal fit; a multi-position infielder who has shown recent on base ability, postseason experience and the financial security that won't scare away mid-major market clubs. He doesn't appear to be expensive like a superstar, and he fits into that sweet spot where other clubs around the league might view him as a clear trade candidate.

But for Padres fans, the concern that arises here is that trading Cronenworth would indicate  that the Padres are willing to sacrifice some of the familiarity and clubhouse stability that Cronenworth provides to rebuild a more balanced 2026 roster. It would not be a tear down, but rather a re-calibration, the type of move that could make sense from a financial standpoint on a spreadsheet, yet still feel strange.

Ultimately whether the Padres will ultimately choose to move a regular to reset their payroll, and address multiple needs simultaneously, remains to be seen. However, based on what we know today, it's becoming increasingly apparent why the outside world continues to circle the name that Padres fans never thought they'd hear again.