Analyst makes surprising trade-deadline prediction for Padres

Baltimore Orioles catcher Adley Rutschman. Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

Analyst makes surprising trade-deadline prediction for Padres

By Vanessa Serrao | Last updated May 27, 2026 9:09 PM ET

As we inch closer to the All-Star break, more trade speculations and rumors continue to arise. MLB analyst Ben Verlander made a bold prediction of the San Diego Padres trading for Baltimore Orioles star catcher Adley Rutschman at the trade deadline.

Verlander proposed the blockbuster trade on X, suggesting a bold move in order for the Padres to upgrade their catcher situation. While no reports indicate that the Orioles plan to shop their All-Star catcher, Verlander has laid out how Rutschman is a hypothetical trade target.

The 28-year-old's defensive value and top-tier on-base skills would make his asking price high, meaning the Padres would have to give up several elite prospects.

While the move isn't impossible, as the Orioles contain depth, the chance of such a big move taking place is projected as low.

I think the Padres trade for Adley Rutschman at the deadline.

Hot take. Just putting it out there so that when it happens I have proof.
— Ben Verlander (@BenVerlander) May 27, 2026

Why the trade makes sense

The Padres have looped through numerous options behind the dish, and Rutschman would provide them with a switch-hitter who has solid defense with a strong proficiency in getting on base consistently.

With Samuel Basallo performing exceptionally well and the Orioles being known for making moves at the deadline in the past, dealing Rutschman could help them gain pitching depth.

The Orioles uphold a high reputation when it comes to catching prospects. Aside from Basallo, they also have Ike Irish, Ethan Anderson and Creed Willems. With Rutschman upholding such a high value, it can be argued that packaging him would tackle the Orioles' more blatant demands to acquire rotation arms.

What obstacles make the trade less likely

Rutschman is a two-time All-Star who has two years of control left on his contract. All in all, it would require a heavy load of top prospects such as Ethan Salas and Braden Nett to seal the deal.

As well, taking on Rutschman's increasing arbitration salary means the Padres would have to resort to making difficult financial choices with other players on the roster.

Vanessa Serrao

Serrao is a freelance baseball writer who has covered all MLB teams, with particular expertise on the Toronto Blue Jays. She is a member of the Internet Baseball Writers Association of America.

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