Former Top Prospect Heads Back to Team He Started With

The 24-year-old Patino has seen his star fade amid struggles in the major leagues. He made just nine appearances in the big leagues this past season between the Rays and White Sox. He went 0-1 with a 4.57 ERA.

In 45 career appearances at the big league level, Patino is 7-6 with a 5.02 ERA. He's started 23 games in his career between the Padres, Rays and White sox. He made 15 starts for the Rays in 2021.

He was the No. 19 prospect in all of baseball as recently as 2021 as ranked by MLB.com.

From the Padres perspective, Patino could potentially be an answer for them to replace one of several departing arms in their rotation. This offseason alone, the team will likely lose Blake Snell and has already lost Michael Wacha, Nick Martinez and Seth Lugo. In the bullpen, the team has lost Martinez (a swingman) and will lose closer Josh Hader, so there are openings there too.

The White Sox, who let Patino go, will continue their roster churn under first-year general manager Chris Getz. Chicago finished fourth in the American League Central last season.