Dodgers: Sizing Up the NL West Competition- Padres

The Padres biggest offseason move was easily their addition of Eric Hosmer. Hosmer is top tier player and was once the pride of the Kansas City Royals. But, a rebuild in Missouri and a huge price tag on Hosmer’s head caused the 28-year-old first baseman to hop on the rebuild train in San Diego.

But, the Eric Hosmer signing is not all that perfect when you look a little further. Hosmer inked an eight-year deal worth $144 million. There is an opt-out somewhere in there but for argument’s sake let’s say Hosmer rides out all eight seasons. That would make him a free agent in 2026, his age 36 seasons. While we are talking about the here and now it is impossible to ignore how stuck the Padres will be in five or six years from now. Statistically speaking Hosmer is well worth the money right now but come 2023, $20 million a year could be a serious thorn in the sides of Padre management.

Whether there is trouble down the road or not, Hosmer is a big deal for the Padres in 2018. The 2017 Gold Glover and Silver Slugger will certainly help the team. His strength in run production and ability to play 155+ games in a season will be welcomed traits for a team that has struggled so much in its recent history. Hosmer owned a 132 OPS+ and a WAR of 4 last year to go with his .318 batting average and 25 home runs.

Beyond the Hosmer signing the Padres’ moves were smaller but still extremely productive. The team inked Brad Hand to a three-year extension worth just over $20 million. They also added a solid reliever in Craig Stamen and traded Yangervis Solarte to the Blue Jays for two serviceable prospects.

The team did lose Jhoulys Chacin to the Brewers and he was arguably the best pitcher on the roster last year.