Padres Rumors: Former GM Links Friars to 2 Relievers as Trade Deadline Nears

Would these players help the Friars reach the postseason?

As the MLB season has continued, it has been more of the same for the San Diego Padres. It has been a frustrating season all around for the organization, and they are left still trying to figure things out.

Their offensive struggles have continued into the second half of the season, and now with the trade deadline approaching, San Diego has some choices to make. They seem like they want to be buyers at the trade deadline despite all the odds against them reaching the postseason this season.

Some wonder if this is the best path forward for them, but General Manager AJ Preller seems to believe it is. If the Padres do indeed become buyers at the deadline, then they will likely look at upgrading some position players and bullpen.

The bullpen seems to be a need for them, so be on the lookout for San Diego to approach the market looking there. MLB insider Jim Bowden linked two relievers to the Padres if they decide to try and make a playoff push this season.

“I also would see what the Royals wanted for reliever Scott Barlow or what the Mets wanted for David Robertson.”

Per The Athletic

Both Barlow and Robertson would give the Padres an immediate upgrade to their bullpen. They have an awesome closer in Josh Hader, and the team just got Robert Suarez back from injury, but they could use more arms they can rely on.

Barlow is having a good season for the Royals despite his elevated ERA. He holds an ERA of 4.89 on the season but has added in 11 saves as well. Barlow could give San Diego a nice one-two punch with Hader, causing fear from opponents late in games. 

As for Robertson, he would likely cost more to acquire because he is having a great year for the New York Mets. He holds an ERA of 2.13 and has struck out 47 batters over 42.1 innings of work. Other than the Padres, the Mets are the biggest letdown this season, so they could be looking to unload some of their players. 

Whatever the Padres decide to do, addressing the issues in their bullpen should be a priority. If they want a real chance to reach the postseason, then the bullpen needs to be shored up this trade deadline.