The San Diego Padres continue to reshape their roster as they enter the Craig Stammen era, recently signing outfielder Alex Verdugo to a minor league deal. This addition comes as part of their effort to strengthen depth during the free agency period, with Verdugo expected to join minor league camp ahead of spring training. Financial details of the agreement have not been disclosed, but the assignment to the minors suggests Verdugo must prove himself before returning to the major leagues.
Verdugo’s Career Path Following the Mookie Betts Trade
Alex Verdugo was once considered a key player emerging from the Boston Red Sox’s pivotal trade involving Mookie Betts to the Los Angeles Dodgers. After four seasons with Boston, he moved to the New York Yankees for a brief one-year stint before spending the 2025 season with the Atlanta Braves. Over nine years in Major League Baseball, Verdugo has compiled a batting average of .270 along with 70 home runs, 328 RBIs, and 23 stolen bases.
Despite these career numbers, Verdugo’s recent performance has been underwhelming. His time with the Braves was marked by struggles, as he hit just .239 over 56 games without any home runs, accumulating only 12 RBIs. This downturn makes his path back to consistent MLB action uncertain.
Potential Role With the Padres and Future Outlook
By signing Verdugo to a minor league contract, the Padres are taking a calculated risk on a player who has shown glimpses of talent and can cover all three outfield positions. Injuries or roster adjustments could create opportunities for him if he proves capable at the minor league level. Although Verdugo has yet to demonstrate the consistency expected of a difference maker, this deal provides him with a clear route to potentially regain at-bats in the majors.
His signing highlights San Diego’s willingness to invest in experienced players who may still contribute if given the right circumstances. For Verdugo, the challenge lies in proving his value to the Padres organization and reigniting his major league career.
“The outfielder is set to report to minor league camp, which could make his path back to the majors trickier.” – Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune
Padres add Alex Verdugo via minor-league deal. He will be in minor-league camp. https://t.co/71aoMsIYiw
— Kevin Acee (@sdutKevinAcee) March 1, 2026
