Padres News: SD signs former Dodgers outfielder and former Red Sox pitcher

The San Diego Padres got a head start at spring training since they'll be participating in the upcoming Seoul Series next month. Now, every major league team has now arrived at their respective spring training homes, but there are still several free agents available on the open market, and a number of teams have holes remaining on their roster.

Count the Padres among that group of clubs looking to patch some holes, as the Friars are still in the market for starting pitching, bullpen help, and additional outfielders. One could argue that aside from another infielder, the Padres are still looking for ways to improve their roster.

Padres President of Baseball Operations AJ Preller made a pair of minor-league signings that will add to competition already taking place in Peoria. The Friars came to terms with former Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Zach Reks, as well as former Boston Red Sox reliever Austin Davis. Both players presumably received a non-roster invite to spring training.

Padres News: Former Dodgers OF Zach Reks signs MiLB deal with San Diego

Reks may actually have a good chance to break camp with the Padres. After a six-game stint with the Dodgers in 2021 and a cup of coffee with the Texas Rangers in 2022, Reks took his talents overseas and spent the 2023 season with the Lotte Giants of the KBO.

Reks hit .246/.338/.345 in 55 games with the Giants last season, but has a .925 OPS in three seasons at the Triple-A level. While Reks is unlikely to find his way into the Padres everyday lineup, with so few options in the outfield, he could make run at the Opening Day roster.

Padres News: Ex-Red Sox reliever Austin Davis inks new deal with Friars

Much like Reks, Austin Davis did not play in the major leagues last season. But rather than heading to Korea, Davis was relegated to Triple-A throughout 2023. The left-handed reliever, who last suited up for the Minnesota Twins, also spent time with the Boston Red Sox, Pittsburgh Pirates and Philadelphia Phillies.

Davis will be competing for a spot in the San Diego bullpen. After losing Josh Hader this winter, the Padres have already invested heavily into their relief corps by signing the likes of Woo-Suk Go, Wandy Peralta and Yuki Matsui. Davis will face some stiff competition if he hopes to break camp with the Friars.

Both Reks and Davis face an uphill battle as they look to keep their major league dreams alive. Injuries happen, and players may underperform. If Reks or Davis happen to catch the eye of manager Mike Shildt or one of the coaches at spring training, perhaps one or both will be able to continue their path.