The San Diego Padres are reportedly aiming to reduce payroll this offseason. According to Jeff Passan’s report on Thursday, Padres general manager A.J. Preller is actively exploring ways to offload salary, with proven veterans like Jake Cronenworth and Luis Arraez potentially on the trade block. Combined, the two infielders are owed $93 million. Passan noted that Preller, known for his willingness to pursue creative deals, could shop either player. “With a scarcity of quality infielders in free agency, moving Cronenworth or Arraez could yield a significant return,” Passan wrote.
The New York Yankees, always seeking roster upgrades, have been suggested as a potential landing spot for Arraez. FanSided writer Jacob Mountz believes Arraez would be a great addition but advises against pursuing Cronenworth. “Luis Arraez is a prime rental target the Yankees could pursue,” Mountz wrote. “Cronenworth, however, carries multiple years of team control, and his current performance doesn’t justify the risk of acquiring him.”
Adding Arraez could enable the Yankees to shift Jazz Chisholm Jr. back to centerfield, where he’s had greater success. While Cronenworth has the potential to rebound, his lengthy contract presents a significant financial risk. Both players remain options for Yankees GM Brian Cashman, though the team appears focused on acquiring a powerful bat for third base. The infield market may not see much movement until stars like Nolan Arenado and Alex Bregman find new teams, as the Yankees have been linked to both.
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