The San Diego Padres find themselves at a pivotal moment in the 2025 MLB season. With a roster stacked with talent and capable of contending for not just the NL West title but also the National League pennant and possibly the World Series, expectations are high. However, financial complications and a growing number of expiring contracts are clouding the picture. To keep pace with the powerhouse Los Angeles Dodgers, the Padres may need to get aggressive at the trade deadline — particularly by adding controllable, long-term talent.
Two intriguing trade proposals could reshape San Diego’s outlook, both for this season and beyond.
Trade Target 1: Andrew Abbott Bolsters Rotation Depth
Padres receive: LHP Andrew Abbott
Reds receive: LHP Boston Bateman, OF Tirso Ornelas, RHP Ryan Bergert
The Cincinnati Reds are overflowing with MLB-ready arms, and with top prospect Rhett Lowder expected to return from injury soon, they could be motivated to move a starter. Andrew Abbott is a logical trade chip — and a perfect fit for the Padres.
San Diego is staring down the likely departures of starters Michael King and Dylan Cease after this season. Acquiring Abbott would give them a left-handed starter under control for multiple years — someone who can contribute immediately while also being a cornerstone in the rotation moving forward. Abbott brings consistency, command, and playoff potential, and would slot in nicely behind Yu Darvish and Joe Musgrove.
Trade Target 2: Padres Swing Big for Luis Robert Jr.
Padres receive: OF Luis Robert Jr.
White Sox receive: LHP Kash Mayfield, SS/2B Cobb Hightower, RHP Braden Nett
If the Padres want to make a statement — and leapfrog the Dodgers in the division — landing a star outfielder could do the trick. Luis Robert Jr., one of the top talents potentially available at the deadline, is drawing attention across the league. San Diego has the prospects to get a deal done, and this trade would require parting with three of their top ten prospects.
Robert’s combination of power, speed, and defensive skill would bring immediate impact to San Diego’s outfield. Better yet, his contract is affordable and extends beyond this season, making him a long-term asset rather than a rental. With several of the Padres’ core players on either expiring deals or long-term commitments, Robert could serve as the bridge between their current and future windows of contention.
If the Padres want to remain serious contenders in the NL playoff race — and keep the Dodgers within reach — these kinds of bold, future-conscious moves might be exactly what they need.
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