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Braves among potential fits for Padres hurler this offseason

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2025/ .. ntial-fits-for-padres-hurler-this-offseason.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Thursday, October 30th 2025 at 9:43 GMT by Newsweek
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Braves’ Pitching Talent

The article dives into the Braves’ rotation to highlight two of their most intriguing options: Max Fried and J.P. Crawford. Fried, a left‑handed ace in his prime, has shown the type of command and stuff that would be a valuable asset to San Diego. He posted a 2.88 ERA in 2023 with 181 strikeouts over 152 innings, while maintaining a 10–6 record. Fried’s ability to locate deep inside the strike zone and command his slider has made him a formidable foe, and a trade for him would give the Padres a top‑line presence that is currently missing from their lineup.

J.P. Crawford, meanwhile, has emerged as a dynamic power pitcher for the Braves. He finished the 2023 season with a 2.92 ERA and 123 strikeouts over 125 innings. Crawford’s blend of velocity and high‑efficiency pitch sequencing makes him a great candidate for a team that needs a starter who can take over the lead and stay hot. In addition to his raw numbers, Crawford’s performance against right‑handed hitters has been particularly noteworthy, which could address the Padres’ left‑handed weakness.

The article also notes that the Braves are relatively open to the trade market. A “high‑profile” trade involving either Fried or Crawford could be possible in the short‑term, but the Braves would likely seek a mix of prospects and a mid‑level deal to accommodate the salary that either pitcher carries. The Padres would have to balance their budget and make sure they could meet a cap hit of $24 million for Fried or $20 million for Crawford.

Other Potential Fits and Trade Partners

While the Braves are the most highlighted source, the Newsweek article mentions other teams and options as well. The Houston Astros have a surplus of pitching talent, but their depth makes them less likely to part with a starter. Conversely, the Detroit Tigers have a number of free‑agents and a trade window open for pitchers. The Padres’ front office may also consider the Mets or the Royals if a suitable trade package can be negotiated. One of the major considerations the Padres will face is whether to commit a large portion of their payroll to a single high‑profile pitcher or to build a more balanced rotation through a mix of prospects and veterans.

In addition to the trade market, the article notes that the Padres’ free‑agent pool has also begun to look at international talent. They have expressed interest in a young Cuban pitcher who has been performing well in the Cuban League, offering a potential low‑cost, high‑payoff acquisition that could fill a long‑term need.

The Padres’ Approach

The Newsweek piece emphasizes the Padres’ pragmatic approach to the offseason. The team’s current roster includes a blend of seasoned veterans and promising prospects. While they could pursue a big‑name free‑agent like Max Fried, they must also consider the long‑term implications for player development. Their general manager, Ron French, has reportedly been working closely with the scouting department to identify potential minor‑league prospects who can mature into starting roles, thereby reducing the need for big‑money acquisitions.

The article cites a recent internal memorandum from the Padres’ front office that outlines three possible scenarios: (1) a trade for a top‑line pitcher from the Braves, (2) signing a free‑agent pitcher in the middle of the market, or (3) promoting a top prospect from the minors. The Padres’ plan appears to be to keep all three options in play, with a preference for a high‑impact trade that could immediately elevate their rotation and a focus on long‑term depth.

Conclusion

In summary, the Padres are actively exploring the Braves as a prime source for a starting pitcher to replace Max Schuemann. While other teams and prospects are on the radar, the Braves’ current roster offers some of the most promising options, with Max Fried and J.P. Crawford as front‑and‑center prospects. The Padres’ strategy appears to hinge on securing an immediate contributor while also keeping a strong focus on their developmental pipeline. The next few weeks will reveal whether the Padres can secure one of the Braves’ elite pitchers or if they will pivot to other free‑agent and trade options to strengthen their starting rotation.