Former Padres’ top prospect from Juan Soto trade already fast-tracked for MLB debut

It may not be entirely fair to call Drew Thorpe a former Padres prospect, but the fact remains that the right-hander was in the San Diego organization — albeit for just a couple of months.

Thorpe was, of course, one of the key assets that San Diego Padres President of Baseball Operations AJ Preller included in the trade package to acquire former Chicago White Sox pitcher Dylan Cease.

Thorpe, along with right-handers Jairo Iriarte and Steven Wilson as well as outfield prospect Samuel Zavala were sent to the White Sox in exchange for Cease. So far, the trade has paid massive dividends for the Friars, who've watched Cease turn in to the ace of San Diego's starting rotation.

Former Padres’ top prospect Drew Thorpe set to debut for White Sox vs. Mariners

But on Tuesday night, the White Sox will get to see their prized prospect on a major league mound for the first time in his career. Thorpe is currently the White Sox No. 3-ranked prospect, according to MLB Pipeline, and is ranked just outside the top-50.

The right-hander will make his major league debut at T-Mobile Park on Tuesday in the second game of a three-game series against the AL West-leading Seattle Mariners. Thorpe won't have a better matchup this season, as Seattle has been one of the worst offensive teams in baseball this season.

Unlike Iriarte, Wilson, and Zavala, Thorpe was not a homegrown prospect. The 23-year-old was part of this past winter's trade with the New York Yankees that sent Juan Soto to the Bronx. Coming back to San Diego in addition to Thorpe were Randy Vasquez, Jhony Brito, Kyle Higashioka, and Michael King.

With the Padres looking to contend for the NL West crown this season and the White Sox selling off all their top assets, the trade made sense for both sides. There are rumors that the two teams may be talking once again — this time about another talented young pitcher by the name of Garrett Crochet.

Chicago is said to be listening to all offers, and Preller has never seen a trade he didn't like. If Preller gets his way, don't be shocked if a few more Padres prospects are debuting for the White Sox in the coming years.

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