{"id":92535,"date":"2024-12-21T14:53:32","date_gmt":"2024-12-21T19:53:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/?p=92535"},"modified":"2024-12-21T14:53:32","modified_gmt":"2024-12-21T19:53:32","slug":"padres-starting-catcher-search","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/2024\/12\/21\/padres-starting-catcher-search\/","title":{"rendered":"Padres Continue Quest for Starting Catcher"},"content":{"rendered":"

The San Diego Padres still don\u2019t know who their starting catcher will be next season. While they have some time to address this pressing issue, the options are dwindling. It may not be the franchise’s top offseason priority, but General Manager A.J. Preller must find a solution soon.<\/span><\/p>\n

Padres Continue Quest for Starting Catcher<\/h2>\n

Concerns about the catcher position are nothing new for Padres fans. Over the years, the team has struggled to find consistent production behind the plate. From Derek Norris<\/a> to Austin Hedges<\/a> and Austin Nola<\/a>, stability has been elusive. Heading into 2025, the same uncertainty looms large. <\/span>A potential reunion with Kyle Higashioka<\/a> seemed plausible earlier this offseason, but the veteran catcher signed<\/a> with the Texas Rangers. The Padres\u2019 list of viable options has shrunk, and the clock is ticking.<\/span><\/p>\n

Backstop Carousel: Possible Options<\/h3>\n

Luis Campusano<\/h3>\n

Once a highly touted prospect, Luis Campusano<\/a>\u2019s development has stalled. Trade rumors have swirled around the 26-year-old this offseason, but his lack of consistent production has left him with minimal trade value. <\/span>In 2024, Campusano posted a disappointing .227\/.281\/.361 slash line with eight home runs, 40 RBI, and a .642 OPS (78 OPS+). Despite flashes of potential, he hasn\u2019t sustained success<\/a> at the big-league level. With limited options available, the Padres might be forced to give Campusano one last opportunity to prove he can handle the starting role. However, patience is wearing thin.<\/span><\/p>\n

El\u00edas D\u00edaz<\/h3>\n

El\u00edas D\u00edaz<\/a>, who signed a minor league deal with the Padres in August, presents a low-cost veteran option. The 34-year-old former All-Star struggled offensively in 2024, slashing .265\/.313\/.382 with six home runs, 39 RBI, and a .695 OPS (88 OPS+). His defensive skills remain solid, making him reliable behind the plate. <\/span>D\u00edaz could emerge as a budget-friendly short-term solution. While not an ideal long-term option, he brings experience to a team in need of stability. Moreover, he already has some familiarity with the coaching staff and the starting rotation.<\/span><\/p>\n

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El\u00edas D\u00edaz’s first Padres homer is a big one! pic.twitter.com\/sOs3qlBwfZ<\/a><\/p>\n

\u2014 Talking Friars (@TalkingFriars) September 22, 2024<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n