Padres News: Padres Catcher Isn't Letting Ego Get in The Way of Less Playing Time

Autin Nola just wants to win regardless of his role

The San Diego Padres boast an impressive roster on paper, with exceptional talent across almost every position. However, there has been one glaring weakness in the catcher's position. The Padres wasted no time addressing this when former All-Star catcher Gary Sanchez hit the market, and the Padres signed him right then and there. The addition of Sanchez has gotten off to a good start, hitting two home runs and driving in four RBIs in just three games as a Friar.

If he continues this level of performance, Sanchez could potentially become the team's primary catcher, resulting in reduced playing time for veteran Austin Nola. Although it would hurt Nola to get less playing time, he understands what the team needs to do and just wants to win baseball games. He spoke with Padres insider Kevin Acee and expressed his focus on winning games regardless of his role.

“We’re trying to win,” Nola said. “That’s the key. We’re gonna do whatever we can to win. There’s no, ‘I’m mad.’ No. That’s not how it works on this team. That’s not the personalities we’re gonna have here. We’re here to win.”

This mindset is refreshing, considering Nola's lackluster performance in 2023. Currently slashing a mere .126/.244/.175 with a .419 OPS, Nola's offensive struggles have made him nearly unplayable and have not helped his case for consistent playing time.

Nevertheless, seeing Nola prioritize the team's success above his personal circumstances is encouraging. Baseball is a team sport, and the Padres must embody that spirit more effectively. 

The fans and team eagerly anticipate Sanchez's continued success and hope that Nola can rediscover his form when he steps into the batter's box. In the end, with an elite catcher or not, the Padres have other things to fix in order to be a championship team this season.