Padres Rumors: Interest Between Gary Sanchez and Friars 'Mutual' According to Insider

Could we see Sanchez back in SD next season?

One of the more interesting parts of the 2023 season for the San Diego Padres was the resurgence of catcher Gary Sanchez once he joined the team. San Diego didn’t have a ton go right for them this past season, but the veteran catcher seemed to thrive playing with the Friars.

The former All-Star had bounced around the league the last few seasons but found a home in San Diego. Now entering free agency, it seems that both sides are open to a reunion moving forward.

This could be a good thing for both parties, and insider Dennis Lin of The Athletic explains how San Diego may maneuver a deal with Sanchez this offseason.

“The most fruitful waiver claim of this major-league season, Sánchez rescued the Padres from a dire catching situation, swatting 19 home runs in 72 games, providing competent defense and impressively reviving his career before he suffered a fractured wrist in early September. There appears to be mutual interest in a reunion, but with Campusano on the rise, the Padres figure to be disciplined with whatever they might offer the 30-year-old Sánchez.”

Per Dennis Lin of The Athletic

If Sanchez returns, it would be likely as a backup for the Padres, but this could be a good situation for him. There was a moment even a year ago when Sanchez likely didn’t know what the future held for him in the major leagues, so signing with San Diego could help keep his career alive.

Even if he splits the catching duties with Luis Campusano, it could be a good thing for him. He brings needed veteran experience to the table, and he could help keep the team in check. 

Sanchez also should be able to help the young pitchers in the Padres system, and his bat proved to still be very useful.

Sanchez is one of a few members of the 2023 team that the Padres will need to decide on throughout this offseason. It will be a fascinating winter for this club, as they try to put themselves back into a position where they can get to the postseason in 2024.