Is Martín Maldonado’s career over? His offensive numbers were abysmal last year, and his winter ball stats didn’t offer much hope. Is this Padres minor league deal his last chance to prove he belongs in the majors? Or are the Padres simply filling a roster spot with a cheap veteran presence?
The Padres catching situation is wide open. Campusano underperformed last year, and Sullivan is largely unproven. Does Maldonado, even with his declining skills, have a legitimate shot at making the opening day roster? What does this signing say about the Padres’ plans for their catching position in 2025? Are they punting on the position due to budget constraints?
This move seems like a low-risk, potentially high-reward gamble for the Padres. But what’s the ceiling here? Can Maldonado recapture even a fraction of his former defensive prowess? Can he mentor the younger catchers and provide valuable leadership? Or is this signing merely a stopgap measure while the Padres explore other options? Weigh in with your thoughts. Is this a smart move for the Friars, or are they setting themselves up for another disappointing season behind the plate?
Is Martín Maldonado’s career over? His offensive numbers were abysmal last year, and his winter ball stats didn’t offer much hope. Is this Padres minor league deal his last chance to prove he belongs in the majors? Or are the Padres simply filling a roster spot with a cheap veteran presence?
The Padres catching situation is wide open. Campusano underperformed last year, and Sullivan is largely unproven. Does Maldonado, even with his declining skills, have a legitimate shot at making the opening day roster? What does this signing say about the Padres’ plans for their catching position in 2025? Are they punting on the position due to budget constraints?
This move seems like a low-risk, potentially high-reward gamble for the Padres. But what’s the ceiling here? Can Maldonado recapture even a fraction of his former defensive prowess? Can he mentor the younger catchers and provide valuable leadership? Or is this signing merely a stopgap measure while the Padres explore other options? Weigh in with your thoughts. Is this a smart move for the Friars, or are they setting themselves up for another disappointing season behind the plate?
