As the MLB All-Star game approaches, the San Diego Padres find themselves in a heated playoff race marked by resilience despite a season riddled with injuries. Currently trailing the Dodgers by 7.5 games in the National League West, the Friars are well-positioned to make a significant climb in the Wild Card standings.
When their roster is fully healthy, the Padres rank among the league’s most formidable teams, and they may seek to reinforce their squad as the trade deadline looms on July 30. It comes as no surprise that the Padres are expected to be active participants in trade discussions.
One potential acquisition that could boost the Padres’ World Series aspirations is Colorado Rockies catcher Elias Díaz. According to MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand, the Padres are seen as a possible destination for Díaz, whose strong performance in June (.357/.419/.536 in eight games) was interrupted by a calf strain that sidelined him for nearly three weeks. Since returning on June 30, Díaz has continued to excel, batting .306 with a .790 OPS this season. With less than $3 million remaining on his contract before he becomes a free agent this offseason, the 33-year-old could be a valuable addition, especially as one of the few impactful catchers potentially available this month.
The New York Yankees are also reportedly interested in Díaz, highlighting the competition for his services.
Díaz is on track for a productive offensive season by catcher standards, boasting a .304/.350/.432 slash line with a .782 OPS, along with five home runs and 29 RBI. In contrast, the Padres’ current catching situation, primarily led by Luis Campusano, lacks established depth. Although younger than Díaz, Campusano has faced injury challenges and has already played more games in 2024 than in any previous season of his career, reaching 68 games before the All-Star break.
Adding Díaz to their lineup could inject much-needed power for the Padres, addressing a key area of need as they aim to solidify their postseason contention.