The San Diego Padres hoped the acquisition of All-Star outfielder Juan Soto at the 2022 trade deadline would push them over the top in their quest for the franchise's first World Series title.
And with two full seasons before Soto could become a free agent, they paid a premium to get him.
But after an exciting run to the 2022 NLCS, the Padres fell flat last season and, in a major cost-cutting move, sent Soto to the New York Yankees on Wednesday in another blockbuster trade.
Was their original gamble worth it? And were they able to salvage at least some value out of the deal, even if they weren't able to win a World Series with Soto?
As the Padres attempt to rebuild their roster, they had a distinct need for pitching − especially after losing NL Cy Young award winner Blake Snell and closer Josh Hader to free agency. The Soto trade addresses that need.
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San Diego had to part with four top prospects in August 2022 in order to land Soto and veteran first baseman Josh Bell from Washington. Yet he hit a disappointing .236 with six home runs in 228 plate appearances for them down the stretch.
Still, Soto's presence helped the Padres win a pair of playoff series (including an upset of the division champion Los Angeles Dodgers) before they fell to the Philadelphia Phillies in the NLCS.
For that one playoff appearance, here's who the Padres traded away:
Looking at the amount of talent they gave up compared to what they received, the Padres get an overall grade of C-minus.
Of course, the team's financial landscape has certainly changed over the past 17 months with the death of principal owner Peter Seidler and their broadcast rights payments significantly reduced. Without those factors, it's possible the Padres might have attempted to make another playoff push with Soto before he's set to become a free agent at the end of the 2024 season.
With Soto, the Padres missed the playoffs last year -- which significantly impacts their grade.
Forced to get what they could for Soto, the Padres addressed their greatest need -- getting at least two pitchers who will be part of their opening day roster. In addition, they landed a top pitching prospect with a fairly high upside who could reach the majors by 2025, if not sooner.
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