3 non-tendered players the San Diego Padres should sign immediately

If you are looking for unearthed treasures on the Major League Baseball free agent market, look no further than those players recently non-tendered. MLB clubs had until 8 p.m. (Eastern) last Friday to tender a contract offer to players still under team control. Often, a player is non-tendered because the front office does not value them enough to go through the salary arbitration process.

Organizations will be active in the non-tendered portion of the free agent market this winter. Some signings may not work, but there are gems in the group.

Let's take a look at three non-tendered players whom the San Diego Padres should sign immediately:

SP Brandon Woodruff

It was surprising to see Brandon Woodruff on the non-tendered list, as he was a quality starting pitcher for the Milwaukee Brewers. In 2021, Woodruff went 9-10 with a 2.56 ERA to finish fifth for the National League Cy Young Award. However, injuries to his throwing shoulder have limited his availability on the mound of late.

Woodruff missed the first four months of the 2023 season due to a subscapularis strain in his right shoulder. His return to the hill was outstanding, as Woodruff went 5-1 with a 2.28 ERA in 11 starts. He posted 74 strikeouts in 67 innings pitched. Unfortunately, Woodruff suffered another shoulder injury (anterior capsule) that required season-ending surgery.

His status for the 2024 season is unknown at the moment. The Padres would be investing for the future if they pursue Woodruff. The team is hoping he will be completely healthy at some point next season. Woodruff would be a welcome addition to the starting rotation behind Yu Darvish and Joe Musgrove. The Friar Faithful hopes he will match his previous success to ease their concerns.

C Jacob Stallings

The Padres are ready to hand over the full-time catching duties to Luis Campusano or Ethan Salas. Each is known more as an offensive threat than for their defensive skills. The added production is something the Friars lineup has been lacking for far too long.

At 33 years old, Jacob Stallings may not have the skills to be a starting catcher. But his knowledge and experience would be a welcome addition to the locker room. Thus, the former Gold Glove winner would be the perfect backup catcher for the Friars in 2024.

Last season, Stallings struggled at the plate by hitting .191 with 3 home runs and 20 RBI in 241 at-bats. But no one could deny he had another stellar season behind home plate. Stallings prevent runs by blocking pitches in the dirt and calling a good game. He could assist with the defensive development of San Diego's young catchers.

Questions remain about Campusano and Salas' effectiveness behind the dish. Both catchers must improve defensively before reaching their full potential in the majors. Stallings would be a valuable mentor to them next season.