3 players for San Diego Padres to target this offseason
By David Hill
Jose Quintana
The San Diego Padres rotation has already taken a hit this offseason.
Mike Clevinger signed a one year deal with the White Sox as he looks to rebuild his value. Sean Manaea is likely heading elsewhere as well, leaving a second hole in the Padres rotation. While Nick Martinez could fill one of those spots, it would also make sense for the Padres to find another option in free agency.
Enter Jose Quintana. He had an impressive bounceback campaign in 2022, re-establishing himself as a viable major league option. Quintana posted a 2.93 ERA and a 1.213 WHiP in his 165.2 innings, striking out 137 batters with 47 walks. However, his most impressive number may be eight – the number of homers he allowed last season.
As an extreme ground ball pitcher, Quintana can be subject to the variances of batting average on balls in play. Those grounders can find holes and change the course of the game in a hurry. Having an impressive infield defense, such as is the case in San Diego, could make a tremendous difference, allowing Quintana to post another impressive season.
An elite infield defense and holes in the rotation make Jose Quintana a perfect fit for the San Diego Padres. He is another player that could prove to be a bargain.