The San Diego Padres are reportedly aiming to cut payroll this offseason.
According to Jeff Passan’s latest report, Padres general manager A.J. Preller is looking to reduce expenses, which could lead to the team shopping experienced veterans, including infielders Jake Cronenworth and Luis Arraez. Together, the two players are owed $93 million.
“San Diego GM A.J. Preller, always open to creative deals, could look to trade Cronenworth or Arraez,” wrote Passan. “With a shortage of quality infielders in free agency, either player could fetch a significant return.”
The New York Yankees, often looking to bolster their roster, may be potential suitors. FanSided writer Jacob Mountz suggests that while Arraez could be a strong fit for the Yankees, they should steer clear of Cronenworth.
“Luis Arraez is an ideal rental option the Yankees could pursue,” Mountz noted. “Cronenworth, on the other hand, has multiple years of control, but his current performance doesn’t justify trading for him.”
Adding Arraez could allow the Yankees to shift Jazz Chisholm Jr. back to centerfield, where he has been more effective. While Cronenworth has the potential to bounce back, his lengthy contract poses a significant risk.
Both players remain on Yankees general manager Brian Cashman’s radar, though the team appears more focused on acquiring a high-impact bat to fill the third base position.
For now, movement in the infield market may be slow as teams wait for Nolan Arenado and Alex Bregman to determine their destinations. The Yankees have been linked to both players.
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