The San Diego Padres are gearing up for the 2026 season, and the buzz is all about their spending plans. Despite the looming sale of the team, the Padres are sticking to their guns, aiming to keep their payroll competitive, just like they have for the past few years. But what does this mean for their future? Let's dive in.
Padres chairman John Seidler confirmed the team's intention to maintain a payroll similar to last year's. This is significant because it suggests the Padres are committed to investing in the team, even with potential ownership changes on the horizon. They're aiming to stay in the top 10 in Major League Baseball in terms of payroll, which also means they'll likely surpass the Competitive Balance Tax (CBT) threshold for the second consecutive year and the fifth time in six years.
Last year's payroll hit a hefty $224 million, including bonuses and CBT penalties, ranking eighth in MLB. It was the second-highest in franchise history, only behind the $295 million spent in 2023, which put them in a tight spot with MLB's debt rules.
For context, the Padres have been spending big for five years straight, both compared to their own history and the rest of MLB. They're in the smallest media market in the league based on the number of households, yet they've averaged $222 million in payroll since 2021. They're also one of only seven teams to have crossed the CBT threshold in at least three of the past four years under the current collective bargaining agreement. This is a stark contrast to their past, with an average payroll of $96 million from 2015-2019 and $61 million from 2010-2014. Their payroll only ranked higher than 25th twice in those ten years.
Here's an interesting tidbit: the only two years since 2020 that the Padres didn't make the postseason were 2023 and 2021, when their payroll was among the highest in the majors. They're now aiming for a franchise first: making the playoffs for a third consecutive season in 2026.
To achieve this, the Padres will likely need to bolster their pitching staff, specifically acquiring at least two veteran starting pitchers. They're returning with eight regular position players and what's considered one of the best bullpens in the league. However, they only have three established starting pitchers.
General Manager A.J. Preller is actively exploring the market to improve the team. While the Padres weren't the center of attention at the winter meetings, it wasn't due to a lack of effort. Preller was described as being extremely active, making calls and exploring all options.
But here's where it gets controversial...
Multiple sources suggest Preller is aiming for significant deals, potentially rivaling the trade that brought in four major leaguers in exchange for Juan Soto and Trent Grisham. Some believe his moves could even surpass the impact of past trade deadlines.
There's speculation that the Padres are open to offers for starting pitcher Nick Pivetta. A trade seems unlikely unless it's part of a major deal. Pivetta is due $20.5 million in 2026 and could opt out of his contract after the season.
Additionally, the Padres have received calls about second baseman Jake Cronenworth, who is under contract for five more seasons at a reasonable $12.28 million per year. However, they seem hesitant to trade him unless the return is substantial.
And this is the part most people miss... The exact amount the Padres spend could change, as it has in the past when they made significant acquisitions during spring training. Preller has stated that the team has a budget and a payroll number, and they will adjust based on conversations and opportunities.
What do you think about the Padres' spending strategy? Do you believe they can make the playoffs with their current approach? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
