2 reasons the San Diego Padres will be competitive in 2024, 2 reasons they won't

The San Diego Padres won't be competitive in 2024 because their core is aging and unreliable, and their organizational depth is lacking

Now, to play Devil's Advocate, we're listing off two reasons why the Padres won't be competitive in 2024, starting with this one.

As we've seen this season, the Padres have lost significant contributors to injury at inopportune times, from Manny Machado and Joe Musgrove, to Michael Wacha, Seth Lugo and Robert Suarez. And don't forget, Fernando Tatis Jr. missed time with a suspension.

The truth is, San Diego's core is aging and if the warning signs haven't been clear in 2023, they won't go away in 2024. The Padres have been particularly affected by a lack of depth, failing to replace key contributors at crucial points. And if the Friars are unable to re-sign at least one of Blake Snell or Josh Hader going into 2024, that will only escalate their situation.

Another revolving door position for the Padres in 2023? Designated hitter. It remains to be seen what type of production San Diego will receive from Ji-Man Choi and Garrett Cooper down the stretch, but considering this team deployed Matt Carpenter and Nelson Cruz at DH earlier this season, the need for some consistency at the position is there.

Depth is attainable, but the Padres must make it a priority this offseason or else 2024 could look a lot like 2023.