MLB Rumors: Former GM Says Padres "A Team To Watch" For Star Catcher

The San Diego Padres fell out of contention last season in the 2nd half, but don't expect them to disintegrate like that again in 2022. They'll be getting Fernando Tatis Jr. back within about a month, and according to former major league GM and MLB Network Insider Steve Phillips, they'll be going "all-in" on some big names this summer.

One of the biggest names on the trade market, as he has been for about a year, is Chicago Cubs catcher Willson Contreras. "He could be really interesting at the trade deadline," said Phillips on MLB Network Radio Monday morning.  

Don't be surprised if San Diego gets in on it. They're all-in this year, and if they can add somebody (like Contreras) down the stretch, I could see AJ Preller 'go big or go home'. He's had that mentality. And I respect it... AJ's in a position now to start to justify some of the other moves that he's made, and a payroll that's pretty significant. 

The Padres currently have Austin Nola and Jorge Alfaro manning the tools of ignorance, but Contreras would be a huge offensive upgrade. 

San Diego is one of the top contenders in the National League once again this season, sitting at 33-21, just two games back of the Dodgers, with the 3rd best record in the NL. And that's without Tatis Jr.

Expect them to go "all in", as Phillips says. "The Padres are in on everybody! Every big name."

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