Manny Machado (Image Credits: Imagn)

San Diego Padres 2026 Projected Lineup: Batting Order, Starting Rotation & More

Originally posted on Total Pro Sports
By Cresswell McCoy | Last updated Feb 20, 2026 8:21 AM ET

The San Diego Padres have had several issues over the last couple of years. Despite that, they managed to make the playoffs. From ownership issues and injured players, the Padres have witnessed several hurdles. Many have called out the franchise for being pretty inactive in the offseason.

While San Diego never acquired top free agents, they did make a couple of trades to bolster their roster. The NL West remains competitive, with the Los Angeles Dodgers dominating. However, the Padres are ready to go out and play. Here’s a look at the team’s projected lineup.

San Diego Padres 2026 Projected Batting Order

Fernando Tatis Jr (Image Credits: Getty Images)

1. Fernando Tatis Jr., RF

2. Manny Machado, 3B

3. Jackson Merrill, CF

4. Ramón Laureano, LF

5. Miguel Andujar, DH

6. Nick Castellanos, 1B

7. Xander Bogaerts, SS

8. Jake Cronenworth, 2B

9. Freddy Fermin, C

The Padres have missed out on Luis Arraez, who has been a great part of the team over the years. The addition of Nick Castellanos will certainly help them in the playoffs. Xander Bogaerts is expected to stay healthy as he prepares for a strong run.

San Diego Padres 2026 Starting Rotation

Nick Pivetta (Image Credits: Imagn)

1. Nick Pivetta, RHP

2. Michael King, RHP

3. Joe Musgrove, RHP

4. Randy Vásquez, RHP

5. Germán Márquez, RHP

Another huge blow for the Padres was parting ways with Dylan Cease. It’s going to be a tough balance with five projected starting pitchers. Griffin Canning and German Marquez will certainly help the team. Walker Buehler could make a comeback from the minors if things go well.

San Diego Padres 2026 Projected Bullpen

Mason Miller (Image Credits: Imagn)

1. Mason Miller, RHP

2. Adrian Morejon, LHP

3. Jason Adam, RHP

4. Jeremiah Estrada, RHP

5. David Morgan, RHP

6. Wandy Peralta, LHP

The Padres seem to have plenty of options when it comes to their bullpen. Yuki Matsui, Alek Jacob, and Bradgley Rodriguez are some of the other stars.

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

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