Full Breakdown
San Diego Padres Sign Alex Verdugo to Minor-League Contract
3/2/2026, 1:44:49 AM
Overview of the Signing
The San Diego Padres have signed outfielder Alex Verdugo to a minor-league contract, as reported by Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune. This move marks a renewed interest from the Padres, who had previously attempted to acquire Verdugo through trade and free agency in past seasons. The 29-year-old outfielder, who has spent time with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Boston Red Sox, New York Yankees, and Atlanta Braves, will report to minor-league camp, as he did not receive an invitation to big-league spring training.
Verdugo's Recent Performance
Verdugo's recent performance has raised concerns, as he struggled during the 2025 season with the Braves, posting a .585 OPS in 56 major-league games and a .207 batting average in nine games with Triple-A Gwinnett. Over the past two seasons, he has accumulated a batting line of .234/.292/.339 across 834 plate appearances, hitting 13 home runs and 38 doubles. His declining production led to his release from the Braves in July 2025.
Despite these challenges, Verdugo has a history of solid performance, particularly during his tenure with the Red Sox, where he achieved a .283/.338/.432 batting line from 2019 to 2023, including 55 home runs and 146 doubles.
Current Roster Dynamics
As the Padres prepare for the upcoming season, their outfield is projected to include Fernando Tatis Jr., Jackson Merrill, and Ramón Laureano as the starters. Bryce Johnson is expected to serve as a fourth outfielder. While Verdugo's chances of making the Opening Day roster appear slim, his signing adds depth and competition for a reserve spot. The Padres are also considering other players, such as Miguel Andujar and utility man Sung-Mun Song, for outfield roles.
Official Statements & Responses
The Padres' management has expressed optimism about Verdugo's potential to compete for a spot on the roster. The team's interest in Verdugo reflects their strategy of taking low-cost risks on players who may have the potential to bounce back.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics may point to Verdugo's recent performance as a concern, questioning whether he can regain his previous form. The Padres' decision to sign a player with a declining trajectory could be seen as a gamble, especially given the established outfield lineup.
What's Next
Verdugo will report to spring training, where he will have the opportunity to demonstrate his skills and compete for a place on the Padres' roster. The outcome of this competition will be closely watched as the team finalizes its lineup for the upcoming season.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Verdugo has struggled over the past two seasons with the Yankees and Braves.” — Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune
- “If Verdugo can rediscover the form he showed from 2019 through 2023, he could find a place on the Padres roster.” — Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune
