Padres find desired catching help in unexpected trade with Royals

In a deadline surprise, the San Diego Padres have addressed one of their most pressing needs with a calculated move that could quietly pay dividends. According to ESPN’s Jeff Passan, the Padres have acquired catcher Freddy Fermin from the Kansas City Royals, sending right-handed pitchers Ryan Bergert and Stephen Kolek the other way.

It’s not the blockbuster some fans may have hoped for, but it’s exactly the kind of move that reflects how resourceful  AJ Preller remains as the deadline clock winds down.

The Padres have been dealing with instability behind the plate for most of the 2025 season. With little time left to make a move, Preller found a way to land a capable big-league backstop without touching any of their remaining prospects.

Padres solve catching woes with under-the-radar deal

Freddy Fermin, 30, has quietly been a steady contributor for Kansas City over the past two seasons while backing up veteran Salvador Perez. In 2025, Fermin is hitting .259 with 3 home runs and a .658 OPS, numbers that don’t jump off the page but represent a solid upgrade over what the Padres have been getting. More importantly, Fermin is known for his strong game-calling, leadership behind the dish, and ability to handle a pitching staff, all of which should be a welcome addition in San Diego.

Fermin likely won’t take the league by storm, but he doesn’t need to. With San Diego focused on chasing down a postseason spot, competence and stability at catcher were more important than upside. Fermin brings both, and it’s possible his numbers could improve in a more hitter-friendly environment and with consistent at-bats.

More importantly, he gives manager Mike Shildt a reliable option behind the plate, whether as a steady backup or a potential platoon candidate. And with Preller’s track record, it wouldn’t be a shock if they somehow pull off another move.

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