MLB Trade Rumors: San Diego padres Eyeing 2 Specific Relievers

The San Diego Padres are in the playoff picture this season despite both the lineup and rotation falling short of expectations. While big moves won’t come until the summer, there are some swirling MLB trade rumors about two of the club’s targets in July.

USA Today‘s MLB insider Bob Nightengale reported over the weekend that the Padres are looking around the league for bullpen help and “have their eyes on” Boston Red Sox closer Aroldis Chapman and Colorado Rockies reliever Antonio Senzatela.

Padres general manager A.J. Preller has already demonstrated how much of a priority he places on the bullpen. San Diego gave up one of the top prospects in MLB, Leo De Vries last summer to acquire All-Star closer Mason Miller. One season later, San Diego could strengthen its pen again.

It’s not as if it’s a weakness for the team. Heading into MLB games today, the Padres’ bullpen has the fifth-lowest ERA (3.13) in MLB. That’s even with Jeremiah Estrada struggling early and then spending a few weeks on the IL.

As of now, Boston hasn’t seemingly shown much interest in selling at the MLB trade deadline. While the club is still eight games below .500 entering play on Tuesday, reports have suggested the team wants to add hitting. Chapman does have a mutual option for the 2027 season worth $13 million, which will likely be guaranteed since he’s well on pace to reach the 40-inning incentive.

• Aroldis Chapman stats (ESPN): 0.51 ERA, 0.85 WHIP, 23-7 K-BB, .235 batting average allowed

Senzatela is an intriguing option. A former starter, the 31-year-old reliever is owed $12 million this season with a $14 million club option for 2027. Across 32 innings of work this year, Senzatela boasts a 1.13 ERA with a 0.78 WHIP and a .157 batting average allowed.

The Padres could still add a starting pitcher this summer, but strengthening the bullpen would allow them to effectively shorten games and be better suited for competing in October. One promising thing: with new ownership coming in, shedding payroll won’t be a mandate this summer.