Padres Rumors: Bullpen Depth Will Lead to Another Trade
With both Kevin Quackenbush and Brandon Maurer pitching in triple-A El Paso, the San Diego Padres bullpen is stacked. The last-minute acquisitions of Craig Kimbrel, has overflowed the Padres bullpen. Overflowed, is a good thing however. Quackenbush and Maurer were sent down simply because they have minor league options left.
Both pitchers were roughed up a bit in the spring too, but on another team they would easily make the 25 man squad. In my opinion both pitchers will be back in the majors very soon. They both have the stuff and mindset to be effective 7th and 8th inning guys. In order for them to be recalled, something has to give.
With Craig Kimbrel, Joaquin Benoit, Dale Thayer, Shawn Kelley, Frank Garces, Nick Vincent and Odrisamer Despaigne in the bullpen currently, the bullpen is set. Of those pitchers I would have to say Benoit and Thayer would be of most interest to another team. There was already word that the Padres were getting hits from other GM’s regarding their bullpen once Kimbrel was attained. It’s probably only a matter of time until A.J. Preller strikes again.
MLB Trade Rumors brings us the story of the Padres activity. A.J. Preller is already fielding calls and shortstop is the next issue he needs to resolve. To predict his potential move is nearly impossible. He has for the most part operated under a stealthy smoke screen.
The possible suitors for Benoit are the Toronto Blue Jays, Minnesota Twins, Detroit Tigers, Los Angeles Dodgers and Miami Marlins. That is all reported, but I would imagine any major league team would want a reliever of Joaquin Benoit’s ilk.
One of my next articles will delve into which teams would have the most interest, and if the Padres are a good fit. Among those teams, a few have players the Padres would definitely covet in a potential deal. In my opinion there will be another blockbuster A.J. Preller trade in the next few weeks to a month. Perhaps even before I finish writing this sentence! That’s how fast the man works. There has truly never been a better time to enjoy being a San Diego Padres fan. It’s going to be a great summer.
James was born and raised in America’s Finest City. He is a passionate baseball fan with even more passion towards his hometown Padres. Editor-In-Chief of EastVillageTimes.com. Always striving to bring you the highest quality in San Diego Sports News. Original content, with original ideas, that’s our motto. Enjoy.