Max Kepler, Minnesota Twins
A very intriguing trade option for the Padres could be Minnesota Twins Max Kepler, who would be a perfect middle-of-the-order addition to the Friars lineup. What team does not want another run-producing bat? Kepler has power, runs the bases well and has an above-average glove (+36 in defensive runs saved) in the outfield.
In seven major league seasons, Kepler has hit 120 home runs and driven in 357 runs with a .233 lifetime batting average. He is a left-handed hitter who balances the Friars batting order. Critics have thought the Padres struggles at the plate were caused by the lineup being too righty heavy.
Another positive to acquiring Kepler is the money owed (a little over $16 million over two seasons) on his current deal, which is not a big commitment. The Padres would hold a $10 million club option in 2024 with a $1 million buyout.
The lone negative to acquiring Kepler is he becomes too much of a pull hitter when slumping at the plate. It allows the opposition to use exaggerated defensive shifts during his at-bats. A simple adjustment in Kepler’s batting approach could help him use more of the field to his advantage.
Acquiring a cost-controlled bat is a wise move. The deal allows the Padres to pivot more available money to fix other holes on the roster. You could see the Friars upgrade the starting rotation or add another piece to the bullpen.
The Friars might be taking a risk of acquiring a player who could be on a steady decline at the plate. The front office must determine if Kepler’s batting issues are fixable. If not, the San Diego Padres must look elsewhere for an outfielder.