Part 9/12:
Rosenthal highlights that Nick Pavetta, their current ace or presumptive ace, might be available in trade—an unusual situation considering the team’s roster needs—because AJ Preller may look to acquire younger pitching through trades, similar to past deals involving Juan Soto. The Padres might prefer to unload contracts like Xander Bogaerts or Nick Pavetta if necessary, and could even assemble surprise packages with players not on the radar.
Rosenthal emphasizes that Preller’s plans are highly unpredictable, and only he truly knows his endgame. The Padres’ division—clash of Dodgers, Giants, Rockies, and Diamondbacks—dictates that they must be aggressive if they want to stay competitive.