With rumors indicating that the San Diego Padres might be looking to cut payroll, there’s reason to believe that players like Jake Cronenworth could be available.
Cronenworth is on a fairly reasonable deal, currently signed to a seven-year, $80 million contract. If San Diego is serious about trimming payroll, just about anyone on a long-term deal could become a trade candidate.
According to the latest from The Athletic’s Jim Bowden, the Padres are actively shopping the left-handed-hitting infielder, suggesting there’s a real chance he could be moved in the coming weeks or months.
"The Cardinals will move Brendan Donovan, the Giants will listen on Bryce Eldridge, the Padres are shopping Jake Cronenworth and Nick Pivetta, the Astros are trying to move Christian Walker and Jake Meyers, the Royals will move a starter for a power-hitting left fielder and the Red Sox will trade Jarren Duran if they get the right corner infielder or starting pitcher," Bowden wrote.
There are a few teams that would instantly make sense for Cronenworth, as he’s proven to be an above-average player in today’s game.
With a career 107 OPS+ and his ability to play multiple infield positions, it wouldn’t be surprising to see the Padres receive a solid return for the 31-year-old.
More Padres news:
- Padres' Yu Darvish uncertain he'll pitch again in Major Leagues
- Padres receive $57 million Michael King contract projection from ESPN insider
- Padres' Jake Cronenworth gets trade update from ESPN insiders
- Padres have $60 million reason to trade All-Star versatile infielder
- Ethan Salas floated in trade rumors as Padres have moves to make in offseason
- Former GM believes a reunion could be in order for the Padres this winter