The San Diego Padres lost a lot of talent this winter and did not have the resources to make quality replacements. One way to try filling many holes inexpensively is by acquiring versatile players. That’s exactly what they did on Tuesday, as reports indicate that the Padres will sign Brad Miller to a minor league deal. AJ Cassavell of MLB.com broke the news.
Some news: The Padres have signed longtime infielder Brad Miller to a Minor League deal with an invite to big league camp. A lefty hitter, he’s expected to vie for a bench spot.
— AJ Cassavell (@AJCassavell) March 5, 2024
San Diego Padres Sign Brad Miller
The veteran will compete for a bench role on a Padres team that lacks significant depth. While Miller has seen time all over the diamond throughout his career, the Friars will likely utilize him mostly as a pinch hitter, DH, or in left field. He can also play both corner infield positions, but Manny Machado and Jake Cronenworth likely have those spots locked up, barring injury.
Miller’s career-best stretch came from 2019-2021. During this time, Miller produced a 115 OPS+ with a .812 OPS and 40 homers. Miller excelled as a hitter who drew walks and hit for power. He provided great offensive value despite striking out a lot and not hitting for average. Miller seemed to fit the role of part-time slugger against righties very well.
Miller parlayed this success into to a two-year, $10 million deal with the Texas Rangers. However, he failed to keep up his peak production. In two years with Texas, he appeared in only 108 games and produced a 71 OPS+. It makes sense that the Padres will sign Miller to only a minor league deal with a chance to compete for a spot.
Miller’s Fit On The Roster
As currently constructed, the Padres position player group is incredibly top-heavy. San Diego’s projected starters at DH and center field, plus its bench, features a bevy of inexperienced players. While top prospect Jackson Merrill, currently the projected DH starter, excites fans, he likely needs more minor-league seasoning.
Even at 34, a healthy Miller represents an upgrade over what the Padres currently have in-house. If he stays healthy this spring, Miller should be able to make the team and provide needed veteran depth.
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