3 players the San Diego Padres wish they signed last offseason, 1 they are glad they didn't

Every offseason, the San Diego Padres have the chance to strengthen their roster. Here are some options they missed out on, and one bypassed player that was the right decision.
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Los Angeles Angels first baseman Brandon Drury
Los Angeles Angels first baseman Brandon Drury / Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports

2) The San Diego Padres wish they signed Brandon Drury

Let's say J.D. just wanted to join former Red Sox teammate Mookie Betts in Los Angeles and wouldn't consider a Padres offer. Why not just bring back a player you already had in Brandon Drury?

After an All-Star-caliber first half for the Reds last season, the Padres acquired Drury at the deadline and his production certainly did dip. He had a .724 OPS, over 130 points lower than his mark with Cincinnati, while not doing much for a majority of the postseason either.

Despite the slightly underwhelming tenure, a .724 OPS would've been a whole lot better than what the Padres have right now at the DH spot, and Drury has had a terrific year with the Angels.

Playing for the team he grew up rooting for, Drury is slashing .277/.322/.500 with 14 home runs and 45 RBI. He'd rank third on the team in both RBI and OPS, while also providing a lot of versatility.

Matt Carpenter's contract was two years and $12 million while Drury's is two years and $17 million. He's certainly worth the extra little bit that the Padres will likely spend on an upgrade anyway. Had Drury been with the team, there's a good chance this offense wouldn't struggle as much as it has, especially early in the season.