Padres Reveal Reason Behind Ethan Salas Move

Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports

Padres Reveal Reason Behind Ethan Salas Move

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Miracle Dimwesh | Last updated Sep 1, 2026 8:30 AM ET

Ethan Salas is getting his first opportunity in the major leagues, but the San Diego Padres’ decision to call up their top catching prospect was influenced by more than September roster expansion.

The Padres were already considering Salas for a September promotion before injuries further tested their depth. Luis Rengifo suffered a season-ending ACL injury, while Gavin Sheets was placed on the injured list with plantar fasciitis.

That combination helped accelerate Salas’ arrival as San Diego added reinforcements for the final month of the regular season and its push for a postseason spot.

Sounds like Salas was squarely in the mix for a callup anyway. But injuries to Sheets and Rengifo, plus Salas’ recent performance, made it clear the Padres needed his skill set and lefty bat. No set role heading in. Salas is expected to catch, DH and serve as a bench bat.
— AJ Cassavell (@AJCassavell) September 1, 2026

The news was first reported by Padres beat writer AJ Cassavell, who explained on X that the organization had been considering a September call-up for Salas before the recent injuries created an additional need on the roster.

Salas has earned the opportunity with his performance in the minors. The 20-year-old has played 96 games across the Padres’ system this season, posting a .296/.374/.448 slash line with 10 home runs and 17 stolen bases.

His recent production at Triple-A El Paso has been particularly impressive. Salas hit .326/.410/.539 with a .949 OPS in 24 games, drawing 14 walks while striking out just 10 times.

San Diego Padres catcher Ethan Salas (88)Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images

Salas is expected to provide the Padres with additional depth rather than immediately replacing Luis Campusano or Freddy Fermin as the club’s primary catcher. His left-handed bat could also give San Diego another option off the bench during September.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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