Padres Expected to Explore Trade Market at Key Position

A.J. Cassavell, MLB.com Padres insider, highlighted that another player behind the plate who could add offense would really help support an already potent Padres offense.

"When I mentioned the holes in the Padres' lineup, I was referring to two spots: left field and catcher. There's a reason left field checks in so high on this list and catcher so low," Cassavell wrote in a story on MLB.com.

"The Padres rank 25th in offensive production at catcher (per wRC+). Clearly, they could use more than what they've gotten out of Elias Díaz and Martín Maldonado offensively.

"But that duo has been solid in aiding the Padres' run-prevention efforts. Plus, it's immensely difficult to incorporate a new catcher in-season, when he must learn a pitching staff on the fly.

"Given the nature of the position, I suspect that if the Padres can boost their offense elsewhere, they'll be comfortable leaving the ninth spot in the lineup to their current catching duo. Still, that doesn't mean San Diego won't at least browse the catching market."

The Padres have gotten good production out of Gavin Sheets, Jackson Merrill, Luis Arraez, Manny Machado, and Fernando Tatis Jr. The rest of the hitters have struggled to produce much.

The left field platoon has been bad at hitting the ball, Xander Bogaerts is still inconsistent, while Jake Cronenworth has struggled at second base.

Another key weakness has been Martin Maldonado and Elias Diaz, both veterans who are good defenders, but have also been negative contributors to the offense.

While the Padres have loved the defense from both catchers, come the second half of the season, they more need more offense from that spot in their lineup.

For more Padres news, head over to Padres on SI.