Could Padres Make a Run for 6-Time All-Star, Former MVP Free Agent?
The Padres need a left-handed hitter and they need an infielder. Not much has connected long-time Cincinnati Reds first baseman Joey Votto to San Diego this offseason. However, he could naturally fill a role on this roster for 2024.
Manny Machado will not play third base for the first part of the year after undergoing surgery on his right flexor tendon. He will be the team's designated hitter until he is healthy enough to man the hot corner.
The Padres currently do not have a backup first baseman, and some would argue they don't even have a starter. Jake Cronenworth was criticized last year after he transitioned to first base. He never looked comfortable at first, and his hitting suffered because of it.
Votto, 40, could play a bench role for the start of the season, while also backing up Cronenworth. Then, when Machado returns to third, Cronenworth and Votto could split duties between the designated hitter and first base spot.
The left-hander would also provide some veteran leadership on this team. The clubhouse culture was well-documented last year. The former MVP could help stabilize the locker room as he is held in high regard as a teammate.
Lastly, he would not command a hefty contract. At 40 years old with recent injury troubles, a team could land him on very friendly terms.
In 2023, Votto slashed .202/.314/.433 with 14 home runs in 242 plate appearances. He's still shown he can be a productive bat when healthy. As the primary designated hitter, he has a better chance of remaining active than playing on the field every day.
