3 San Diego Padres playing for a roster spot on the 2024 roster in September

San Diego Padres first baseman Garrett Cooper is playing for a spot on the 2024 roster in September

At the trade deadline, Preller traded pitcher Ryan Weathers to the Miami Marlins in exchange for Garrett Cooper and pitcher Sean Reynolds. Cooper had been good in South Florida during his time with the Marlins and was even named a 2022 All-Star.

Since being acquired, Cooper has been good for the Padres. Last week against his former team at home, Cooper played a big role in San Diego taking two out of three games in a key series with postseason implications. At 32 years old, the right-handed bat is someone who could play himself into the 2024 lineup as a backup first baseman or DH.

The Padres also acquired Ji Man Choi at the deadline, but he has been injured, which has opened the door for Cooper. He has some pop in his bat, but he also hits for average, something needed following the big bats in the lineup.

He would not cost a lot of money and is someone who should certainly be on the radar of the front office this offseason, especially if he finishes strong in September.