San Diego Padres News & Updates

March 02, 2026

San Diego Padres Headlines

The Padres made a notable move by signing Alex Verdugo to a minor-league contract, a player they've coveted for years, despite his recent struggles at the plate. With the outfield crowded, this adds another layer to the roster competition. Meanwhile, the team is grappling with the implications of Bryan Hoeing's elbow discomfort, which could sideline him at the start of the season and complicate the starting rotation's workload. Ruben Niebla's plans for the pitching staff are already under scrutiny, and with seven players heading to the World Baseball Classic, opportunities are ripe for those left behind. Spring training is more than just games, the backfields and live BP sessions are where many decisions will be made that echo into the regular season.

Sources

Padres take a risky flier on a former Red Sox outfielder they’ve chased for years

Padres take a risky flier on a former Red Sox outfielder they’ve chased for years

The Padres sign Alex Verdugo to a minor-league contract after years of interest. The upside is real, but the recent production raises tough questions.

Padres’ rotation plan is heading for an awkward workload dilemma

Padres’ rotation plan is heading for an awkward workload dilemma

San Diego’s rotation choices aren’t just about the fifth starter. Ruben Niebla’s workload plan could quietly reshape the bullpen.

Padres have many decisions this spring

Padres have many decisions this spring

There is a lot going on in spring camp besides what we see in the games played. The backfields, the B games, the live BP and the bullpen sessions thrown are all just as important or more important as what we see on the field. I spent three days this past week watching practice and […]

Padres, Alex Verdugo agree on minor-league deal

Padres, Alex Verdugo agree on minor-league deal

According to Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune, the San Diego Padres and Alex Verdugo have agreed on a minor-league deal. The terms do not include an invitation to the big-league camp. Instead, Verdugo will report to the minor league facility in Peoria, Ariz. The 29-year-old outfielder was released by the Atlanta Braves last […]

Padres Shut Bryan Hoeing Down With Elbow Discomfort

Padres Shut Bryan Hoeing Down With Elbow Discomfort

Padres right-hander Bryan Hoeing is likely to miss the start of the season, according to a report from Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune. Per Acee, Hoeing is dealing with some discomfort in his throwing elbow and has been shut down by San Diego as a result. Acee added that pitching coach Ruben Niebla […]

5 Padres looking to seize opportunities at camp during World Baseball Classic

5 Padres looking to seize opportunities at camp during World Baseball Classic

PEORIA, Ariz. -- Seven members of Padres camp are off to the World Baseball Classic. Which -- in the eyes of new manager Craig Stammen -- means that opportunity abounds for the players who remain.