With free agency underway, plenty of notable names are looking for a new home. The San Diego Padres’ Kyle Higashioka is one of them. San Diego must decide whether to bring the 34-year-old backstop back, and at what price. If he finds a new team this offseason, he will be an under-the-radar signing that could bolster catcher-needy teams.
Breakout Catcher Could Be Valuable Offseason Signing
Kyle Higashioka Could Be Valuable Signing This Offseason
Higashioka was initially expected to serve as a backup to Luis Campusano, a former top prospect for the Padres, who had finally been given a chance to start after years of waiting in the wings. But Campusano’s midseason injury and ongoing developmental struggles created an opening, and Higashioka seized the opportunity. Despite a slow start, his offensive numbers in 2024 marked a career-best season: a .220/.263/.476 slash line, with 17 home runs, 45 RBIs, and a .739 OPS. While those numbers may not jump off the page, they represented a significant step forward for the former New York Yankee.
LET’S GET HIGGY WITH IT 💥 #POSTSEASON pic.twitter.com/2ZT86j51rN
— MLB (@MLB) October 2, 2024
Despite his offensive success, Higashioka’s defensive metrics left room for improvement. According to Baseball Savant, he ranked 60th in Blocks Above Average (-8), 74th in Pop Time (2.02), and 46th in Caught Stealing Above Average (-2). These numbers indicate that while he provided a much-needed boost at the plate, his work behind it was less reliable. Even so, his durability and flashes of offensive brilliance make him an intriguing option for catcher-needy teams looking for a short-term solution.
Market Value
With a thin market for catchers, Higashioka’s value may be higher than expected. Other available options include Gary Sánchez, Danny Jansen, Carson Kelly, and Travis d’Arnaud, who recently entered free agency after the Atlanta Braves declined his option. Most of these players are in their early to mid-30s, so Higashioka’s age may not be a significant detractor in comparison. Spotrac projects his market value at around $1.6 million for a one-year deal, comparable to deals signed by players like Adeiny Hechavarria, Edmundo Sosa, and Francisco Cervelli at a similar stage in their careers.
Potential Landing Spots
If the Padres and Higashioka part ways, several teams could show interest. The Boston Red Sox, Chicago Cubs, Milwaukee Brewers, and Atlanta Braves are potential suitors. Each team could benefit from taking a chance on a veteran like Higashioka, especially after a productive season. However, playing time is another important factor to keep in mind. Higashioka would likely prefer a team where he can be the starting catcher and continue the momentum from his most productive campaign in the majors.
“Higgy” Staying In San Diego?
The most logical fit is still with the Padres. There is mutual interest in a return, especially given his chemistry with the pitching staff and his 2024 resurgence. For a team that has struggled with continuity at catcher, bringing back Higashioka could provide stability while Campusano continues to develop.
The Padres may find themselves with little choice but to re-sign him. A revolving door at catcher is not ideal, and retaining Higashioka might be their best bet to maintain consistency and carry forward the momentum from his strong 2024 season.
Main Photo Credits: Denis Poroy-Imagn Images
