Padres Hit Jackpot With Under-The-Radar Offseason Additions The San Diego Padres secured two unexpected spring additions in Walker Buehler and Ty France, both of whom have earned spots on the team’s Opening Day roster. These signings highlight the strategic acumen of President of Baseball Operations A.J. Preller, who has built a reputation for identifying undervalued talent. While Preller’s high-profile trades, such as acquiring Juan Soto and Blake Snell, often dominate headlines, his ability to craft impactful deals with overlooked players has proven equally vital. Buehler and France exemplify this approach, as their contributions this spring have solidified their roles in the Padres’ 2026 season. Walker Buehler, a right-handed pitcher, signed a minor league deal with the Padres after being released by the Boston Red Sox in August 2025. During his time with the Red Sox, Buehler posted a 5.45 ERA, which led to his release. However, he rebounded by joining the Philadelphia Phillies for the remainder of the season, where he delivered a 0.66 ERA across 13.2 innings. Despite his strong performance, Buehler did not make the Phillies’ postseason roster. In free agency, he received big league offers but chose the Padres’ minor league deal instead. This decision paid off, as Buehler has since made a strong case for his place in the Padres’ starting rotation. During spring training, Buehler showcased his potential by striking out 16 batters in 15 innings. His standout performance came in a five-inning shutout against the San Francisco Giants, which bolstered confidence in his ability to contribute immediately. Manager Craig Stammen praised Buehler’s adaptability to the Padres’ philosophy, noting that the pitcher’s quick buy-in and recent success made the team feel “really comfortable” about his inclusion.#san_diego_padres #craig_stammen #walker_buehler #ty_france #a_j_preller
Ty France, Walker Buehler on 2026 Padres Roster The San Diego Padres have finalized key additions to their 2026 roster, with Ty France and Walker Buehler securing spots on the major league team. Both players were notified of their inclusion ahead of potential opt-outs from their minor league contracts, with France set to serve as an infield backup and Buehler expected to contribute to the season-opening rotation. The decisions come as the Padres prepare for their opening series against the Detroit Tigers at Petco Park. Buehler, a former All-Star pitcher, will be part of the rotation despite a decline in performance since his 2022 Tommy John surgery. Over the past two seasons, he posted a 4.93 ERA across stints with the Boston Red Sox and Philadelphia Phillies. However, the Padres believe he can regain his former effectiveness by refining his approach, including adjusting his pitch mix to reduce reliance on fastballs. Manager Craig Stammen highlighted Buehler’s commitment to the team’s philosophy, noting that his recent success in spring training has bolstered confidence in his ability to contribute. France, a 2025 American League Gold Glove Award winner, will provide defensive flexibility at multiple infield positions. His strong spring performance, including a .318 batting average and a .912 OPS, has solidified his role as a backup. The Padres, who already have right-handed corner bats in Miguel Andujar and Nick Castellanos, see France’s defensive skills as a key asset. Stammen emphasized France’s value as a reliable defensive replacement and his potential to pinch-hit in high-leverage situations. The Padres’ rotation will include Nick Pivetta, Michael King, and Randy Vásquez, with German Márquez as the likely fourth starter.#san_diego_padres #miguel_andujar #walker_buehler #ty_france #nick_castellanos
