While the Padres await a decision from Roki Sasaki, they have recruited a prospective batterymate. According to sources, San Diego has reached an agreement with veteran catcher Martín Maldonado. Maldonado, 38, signed a non-roster contract. He will be invited to Major League camp and have a shot to make the opening day roster.
Following Kyle Higashioka’s move to Texas for a two-year deal, the Padres have serious questions at catcher. Luis Campusano is the anticipated starter at the position, despite a dismal end to the 2024 season. Brett Sullivan, the team’s only other backstop, is a light hitter.
This might open up a roster spot for Maldonado, despite the fact that he had a terrible 2024 season with the White Sox, posting a.404 OPS in 48 games before being released midseason. Maldonado had a.203/.278/.344 slash line and an OPS of.622 during 14 major league seasons. He led a few playoff teams in Houston, including the 2022 World Series champions.
The Padres are still looking for more impactful catching help, ideally a regular starter (which could lead to contention for the backup role between Campusano, Maldonado, and Sullivan). They have yet to complete a major league deal or sign a free agent this winter. The team hopes that the arrival of Sasaki, a 23-year-old Japanese ace, can make a significant difference. According to reports, Sasaki has trimmed his list of suitors to three: the Padres, Dodgers, and Toronto Blue Jays.
The Padres’ intentions behind the plate will primarily focus on finding short-term aid. At only 18 years old, Ethan Salas, MLB Pipeline’s No. 19 overall prospect, is seen as San Diego’s future catcher.
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