The San Diego Padres are steadily moving into the MLB offseason. They have a couple of problems to address, and they revolve mainly around roster improvement. Recent reports hint that signing Elias Diaz could help them sort out some, if not all, of the major concerns.
The Padres have agreed to a one-year contract with catcher Diaz. This will be the Padres’ first major free-agent signing of the winter. They have been sailing silently as most of the franchises but ultimately took a shot aiding their catching needs. However, the situation is rather pressing, especially following the departure of Kyle Higashioka.
Given that Diaz is a defense-first backstop with a decade of major league experience, he offers the Padres a potential starting option in a role that was left vulnerable. After serving as a backup during the postseason last year, Diaz’s familiarity with the Padres’ best match going into the 2025 season.
The Padres have re-signed Elias Díaz to a one-year deal plus a mutual option for 2026, per multiple sources pic.twitter.com/MPGOwgLXga
— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) January 28, 2025
However, despite his struggles in the 2024 season, Diaz brings a wealth of experience and defensive hands that the Padres need. He posted a .190 batting average in just 12 games in the last year’s run. And it would not be a smooth run for him at the camp. Diaz will face challenges from a younger Luis Campusano. The San Diego catcher has shown flashes of potential despite being overlooked in the postseason.
Toronto Blue Jays Were Keen On Elias Diaz
The Padres seem to have snatched the deal at the right time. Earlier, the Toronto Blue Jays were reportedly linked with Diaz. They were eyeing him while exploring options to add to their catching lineup.
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Although GM Ross Atkins publicly expressed satisfaction with the team’s current duo of Alejandro Kirk and Tyler Heineman. However, the reality of their situation might prompt a reevaluation, but they seemed to be good for now. While Kirk is a solid starter, relying on Heineman as the backup raises concerns. But his playing time and the risk of injury have been major concerns.
Elias Diaz is back! pic.twitter.com/7VlPwDJsdn
— Al Scott (@AlScott1998) January 28, 2025
However, Diaz could have provided a valuable upgrade, allowing Heineman to take on a more suitable third-string role. But San Diago will continue his services. Diaz’s defensive skills make him an attractive addition to the Padres. Ranking in the 75th percentile for throwing out runners, framing balls, and pop time, Diaz brings the kind of traditional defensive prowess.
