3 former San Diego Padres failing miserably on their new teams

3 former San Diego Padres failing miserably on their new teams

2. Eric Hosmer

San Diego is still on the hook for three more years and $39 million as part of an eight-year, $144 million contract that Eric Hosmer signed prior to the 2018 season. It's more than safe to say that things didn't work out for either side, though the signing did demonstrate then that the Padres were ready to take the next step in their rebuild.

After shipping Hosmer to the Boston Red Sox at the 2022 trade deadline after acquiring Juan Soto and Josh Bell from the Washington Nationals, the veteran first baseman struggled, but he was able to latch on with the Chicago Cubs on a one-year deal in January.

Hosmer holds an OPS of .657, a paltry figure, albeit in just a handful of 2023 at-bats with the Cubs. He has never been known for his power, and that remains true with his one home run so far this season. Acquiring teams understand they're mostly paying Hosmer for defense and leadership. And even with the glove, the 33-year-old hasn't won Gold Glove honors at his position since 2017.

The Padres now primarily employ Jake Cronenworth at first base, and that seems like a better alternative despite still owing a hefty chunk of years and money to Hosmer.