Padres on the Clock: Time’s Running Out to Resolve Dilemma with Top Reliever

The San Diego Padres are reportedly exploring ways to trade some of their stars to manage payroll and address roster needs. While no moves appear imminent, general manager A.J. Preller is closely monitoring the market and evaluating potential trade assets. One of those assets could be right-hander Robert Suárez. Suarez, 33, has been a standout in San Diego. However, trading him this offseason might allow the Padres to strengthen other areas of the roster.

Padres Should Consider Trading Robert Suárez

Suárez joined the Padres in 2021 after several strong seasons in Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball with the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks and Hanshin Tigers. Despite battling injuries during his rookie MLB campaign, he quickly cemented himself as a key piece of the Padres’ bullpen, serving as an electric setup man for former closer Josh Hader. Suárez’s performance earned him a five-year, $46 million contract following the 2022 season, after he opted out of his initial deal.

While that contract was well-earned, Suárez now finds himself in a position to potentially cash in again. He is set to earn $10 million in 2025 but holds an opt-out clause he is likely to exercise in search of a bigger payday. Though an extension remains possible, the Padres’ recent financial decisions make that unlikely. Trading Suárez this winter could be the smartest move for the Padres to gain valuable assets while his trade value is high.

A Rollercoaster Season

In his first season as the Padres’ closer, Suárez shined early. He posted a 1.67 ERA with 22 saves and 35 strikeouts in the first half, firmly establishing himself as one of the league’s top closers. However, his performance faltered after the All-Star break, with a 4.28 ERA and 13 earned runs in the second half. Several blown saves even led to speculation about a potential change at closer.

Despite his late-season struggles, Suárez rebounded and retained his role through the postseason. Still, his uneven performance in the second half is cause for concern. Padres pitching coach Ruben Niebla has been working with Suárez to develop a more balanced arsenal to expand on his fastball-only approach. It remains to be seen if those adjustments will pay off. If the Padres believe Suárez’s performance could decline further in 2025, now might be the best time to trade him and maximize his value.

Current Closer Market

The New York Post’s Jon Heyman recently noted that the closer market has been slow to develop, with several notable names still unsigned. Among them is former Padre Tanner Scott, though his price tag puts him out of San Diego’s range. However, this market dynamic could work in the Padres’ favor.

Contenders seeking affordable bullpen help might see Suárez as an appealing alternative to higher-priced free agents, even if he ends up being a one-year rental. His age, All-Star pedigree, and affordability could make him a more attractive option than veterans like Kirby Yates or Kenley Jansen. Additionally, the Yankees’ recent trade for Devin Williams suggests teams are exploring trades rather than relying solely on free agency. Preller is likely fielding calls about Suárez already.

Padres’ Bullpen Depth

One reason the Padres can entertain trading Suárez is their bullpen depth. Despite the expected departure of Scott, the team has several high-leverage options. Jason Adam and Jeremiah Estrada are capable candidates to step into the closer role, while Yuki Matsui, Bryan Hoeing, and Sean Reynolds provide additional depth.

Matsui, a 29-year-old lefty entering his second MLB season after transitioning from Japan, could be a breakout reliever in 2025. The Padres have high hopes for his development and believe he can take a significant step forward. The same can be said about Reynolds. With this depth, San Diego has the pieces to handle Suárez’s departure while addressing other roster needs.

For a team balancing payroll concerns and roster upgrades, trading Suárez makes sense. His current value, coupled with the team’s bullpen depth, gives Preller flexibility to explore deals that improve the Padres’ overall roster.