Ty France has made a notable return to the San Diego Padres in 2025, rejoining the team where his professional career began. This move follows a series of transactions starting in August 2020 when Padres President of Baseball Operations A.J. Preller orchestrated a significant seven-player trade sending France to the Seattle Mariners. Following four years with Seattle and brief periods with Cincinnati, Minnesota, and Toronto, France signed a one-year minor league deal with the Padres in mid-February to strengthen a bench that appeared thin at the time.
Strong Early Performance in Spring Training
The All-Star first baseman, who earned a Gold Glove last season, has impressed the Padres during Cactus League games. Despite the team’s 9-1 loss to the San Francisco Giants on Sunday, France contributed San Diego’s only run with a timely single. In 14 at-bats this spring, he boasts a .357 batting average, a .438 on-base percentage, and three RBIs, showing promise to play a part in the Padres’ lineup.
While the full scope of his role on the Opening Day roster remains uncertain, France is likely to serve in a platoon capacity at first base, sharing time with left-handed hitter Gavin Sheets, who is currently the projected everyday first baseman for the Friars.
Pitching Concerns Arise with Bryan Hoeing’s Injury
San Diego’s pitching depth has been tested due to an injury scare involving reliever Bryan Hoeing. After missing most of last season because of a strained right shoulder, the 29-year-old left the team’s live bullpen session on Sunday morning, complaining of elbow discomfort. This setback casts doubt on his availability for upcoming games during Cactus League play.
Speaking with reporters, Padres pitching coach Ruben Niebla commented,
“We don’t think it’s as serious (as it could be), but we have to be conscious and look at it and be able to make the right assessments.”
Hoeing, who was acquired along with left-handed closer Tanner Scott from the Miami Marlins at the 2024 trade deadline, proved to be a reliable long-man in San Diego’s bullpen during the last season. He posted a 1.52 ERA with 18 strikeouts, a 0.80 WHIP, and a .173 batting average against over 23 2/3 innings pitched.
Outlook for the Padres as the Season Approaches
Ty France’s return bolsters the Padres’ bench and offers flexibility at first base, especially with the possibility of sharing duties with Gavin Sheets. Meanwhile, the uncertainty surrounding Bryan Hoeing’s health highlights ongoing concerns within the pitching staff. How these elements evolve during the remainder of spring training will be critical for San Diego as it prepares for its first postseason bid in over a decade. Management’s ability to manage player health and leverage France’s offensive contributions could play a key role in the team’s early season fortunes.
