San Diego Padres "Showing Interest" In All-Star Free Agent Pitcher


The San Diego Padres are reportedly showing interest in Michael Lorenzen, a right-handed pitcher who has made a name for himself in the major leagues over the past nine years.

The Padres, looking to bolster their pitching staff, see Lorenzen as a potential fit.

Last season, Lorenzen achieved All-Star status with the Detroit Tigers, showcasing impressive stats with a 3.58 ERA and a 1.098 WHIP over 18 starts.

However, following a mid-season trade to the Philadelphia Phillies, his performance saw a slight dip in the National League, where he recorded a 5.51 ERA and a 1.48 WHIP in seven starts.

Despite this, his overall career record stands at 40-38 with a 4.11 ERA and a 1.325 WHIP.

The Padres' interest in Lorenzen comes at a time when the team is actively looking to fill gaps in their roster, particularly in the outfield and pitching staff.

The departure of key players like Michael Wacha, Seth Lugo, and Nick Martinez to free agency has left noticeable voids.

Moreover, Blake Snell, the team's top pitcher and a previous N.L. Cy Young Award winner, is expected to sign elsewhere, further intensifying the need for experienced pitchers like Lorenzen.

Financial considerations will play a significant role in any potential deal, as the Padres are reportedly looking for team-friendly contracts due to their current payroll constraints.

Last year, Lorenzen earned $8.5 million, and it's anticipated that he might seek a slight raise along with a multi-year agreement.

The Padres' approach to this offseason, marked by a desire to manage payroll effectively while strengthening the team, makes the pursuit of Lorenzen a storyline to watch as they work to finalize their roster for the upcoming season​​. Photo Credit: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports