MLB Trade Rumors: San Diego Padres want to let rid of their former All-Stars

Throughout the offseason, the San Diego Padres have been the subject of trade rumors. It has been stated that the trading block has gained a new name.

The Padres are open to trading both infielders Jake Cronenworth and Xander Bogaerts, according to Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune. Acee stated that the Padres wish to move on from a "significant" percentage of the money owed to both players, thus such a deal would be part of an effort to reduce payroll. He added that despite the Padres' attempts to let go of both infielders, reliever Robert Suarez might be the most probable player to be traded.

Since agreeing to an 11-year, $280 million contract in the 2022–2023 offseason, Bogaerts has been a letdown. In his 463 plate appearances, he hit 11 home runs, 15 doubles, and stole 13 bases, with a batting line of.264/.307/.381. Additionally, the four-time All-Star missed about two months of activity due to a fractured bone in his left shoulder.

In addition to the roughly $229 million Bogaerts is owed over the next nine years, the Padres face another obstacle to moving on from him. Bogaerts might block any potential deal because he has a complete no-trade clause.

Cronenworth signed a seven-year, $80 million extension prior to the 2023 season, with six more years and roughly $72.7 million remaining. With 17 home runs and 29 doubles in his 656 plate appearances, he recorded a batting line of.241/.324/.390. Cronenworth can veto a deal to eight teams, despite having a smaller salary and no full no-trade clause.

The Padres' willingness to handle the contract and any other components could make or break any transaction. San Diego may receive additional payroll relief and perhaps a component to help compete in 2025 if it is prepared to add a noteworthy prospect.