The writing is on the wall. Ahead of the 2025 MLB trade deadline, it was hinted that Orioles catcher Adley Rutschman would not remain in Baltimore long-term. The deadline passed by, and Rutschman was ultimately not traded. In the meantime, the San Diego Padres traded for Freddy Fermin from the Royals. But is he the long-term option for the Friars?
That question needs to be revisited, especially after the Orioles kissed their relationship with Rutschman goodbye on Friday. Baltimore extended their 21-year-old prospect Samuel Basallo following just four games at the MLB level. His eight-year, $67 million extension is the biggest deal ever for a catcher pre-arbitration. Their faith and investment in Basallo is all too telling that Rutschman will be gone this offseason, which means the Padres must pounce on the opportunity to trade for him.
Padres need to go all in on potential offseason move to acquire Orioles All-Star catcher Adley Rutschman
San Diego is no stranger to doing business with the O's. They acquired Ramon Laureano and Ryan O'Hearn this season at the trade deadline, and both players have performed well on the West Coast. So, who's to say the Friars won't go back to the trading table with Baltimore again?
The move would make sense for the Padres, as they are still in search for a solid catcher beyond just one or two seasons. Fermin has been good in 15 games with San Diego, batting .308 alongside above-average defense. But is Fermin the answer at catcher long-term? Rutschman is a two-time All-Star after all, and despite a rather forgettable season in 2025, the star power and potential is still there.
Adley Rutschman - Baltimore Orioles (9)
— MLB HR Videos (@MLBHRVideos) August 8, 2025
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Rutschman has been dealing with oblique strains on both sides of his body this year, which is likely the case as to why he is posting career-lows in home runs, slugging, OPS, and OPS+. He's still done well defensively, and has remained a disciplined hitter. The 27-year-old needs the offseason to recover, and it wouldn't be surprising if he is just as productive as previous years once his obliques are fully healed. So, why shouldn't the Padres give their shot at a trade for him?
Adding a healthy Rutschman to the Padres' lineup would be lethal, and would make it one of the best in baseball. Trading for him for the 2025 season didn't work out, but the likelihood of seeing Rutschman in San Diego for 2026 seems realistic.