Ex-Padres Star Reportedly Open To Short-Term Deal; Could San Diego Join Sweepstakes?

Should San Diego consider a reunion with the superstar?

A surprising amount of top-tier free agents remain available with spring training games in full swing in Florida and Arizona.

That's true every year, but a remarkable number of established major leaguers who were no worse than "useful" in 2023 are still looking for their next opportunities. That includes former San Diego Padres pitcher Blake Snell.

The two-time Cy Young Award winner spent the last three seasons with the Padres and certainly was impressive. He led the National League with a 2.25 ERA in 32 starts last season with San Diego.

Snell has been looking for a massive contract but hasn't been able to find one yet. Reportedly his agent, Scott Boras, now is open to a short-term deal like the one he negotiated for Chicago Cubs star Cody Bellinger, according to the New York Post's Jon Heyman.

"Snell via his camp is believed to have recently suggested a willingness to be flexible and listen to short-term offers with opt-outs, much like the deal star outfielder Cody Bellinger made to return to the Cubs. Meantime, talks continue while spring training does, too."

Jon Heyman of the New York Post

The 31-year-old certainly is looking for a deal with a high annual value but could possibly be had for a short-term deal. San Diego has been cutting salary but now has a lot of wiggle room. The Padres certainly didn't want to give Snell the deal he initially was looking for, but a short-term deal could make more sense.

San Diego still is looking for help for the rotation. If the Padres could land Snell for a year or two, why not at least look into it?