3 San Diego Padres players who should not be on the roster on July 1

Austin Nola, C

The Padres cannot hold onto Austin Nola beyond the trade deadline. He was expected to offer another bat that would extend the lineup after being acquired in a blockbuster trade with the Seattle Mariners at the 2020 deadline. Instead, Nola has been highly unsuccessful in his four seasons with the Padres. He has batted .235/.315/.321 with 9 HRs and 85 RBIs in 229 games with the Friars.

Now, he finds himself on the bench after his offensive numbers (.135/.256/.180) have plummeted and the renaissance of Gary Sanchez’s career. The former Yankee has taken the reins as the starting catcher by hitting 6 HRs and driving in 16 RBIs in 13 games. Also, Nola’s offensive woes have lingered on the field with subpar defensive play behind the plate.

In light of all his struggles, Nola might be warming his seat for Luis Campusano, who is working his way back from thumb surgery. It might be time for Nola to get a fresh start with another organization. He will not be a difference-maker but might be able to rejuvenate his career. Over time, Nola could find his stroke and become an offensive threat again.