Ten games into the 2025 MLB season is a fairly tiny sample size for any player. But a quick look at the early season data show a noticeable difference between Yuli Gurriel/Jason Heyward and the other eleven position players on the daily roster.
In order to keep Gurriel, the Padres optioned Connor Joe and Oscar Gonzalez, as well as designated Eguy Rosaio and Tyler Wade, prior to the first game against Atlanta. Heyward was signed primarily to give experienced leadership and defensive steadiness in left field. Brandon Lockridge filled the requirement to platoon Heyward with a right-handed bat.
The Padres opened the season brightly, sweeping a seven-game homestand before losing two of three in Chicago. Surprisingly, the catching combo of Elias Diaz and Martin Maldonado has outperformed expectations thus far, hitting.241/.290/.356 with one home run. With the Padres stressing defense and pitcher handling over offense, the two have performed admirably.
Gavin Sheets has maintained his spring brilliance, hitting.385/.407/.577 with one home run and six RBI. He’s also hit two doubles, adding to his seven extra-base hits this spring. He has been the usual DH against right-handed pitchers, as well as pinch hitting.
Gurriel has one hit and one RBI in 13 at-bats, batting.077/.143/.077. He’s struck out in three of those at-bats and hit some weak ground balls. He has primarily been the designated hitter against left-handed pitchers. There is still time for him to recover from his disastrous start, but the organization cannot offer him too much leeway. There are too many other batters waiting in the wings to stick with a nearly 41-year-old for much longer.
Padres value veterans
A club that wants to play in the playoffs understandably values experienced leadership and experience. The organization has emphasized this often under A.J. Preller’s stint as general manager, signing Rougned Odor, Nelson Cruz, and Matt Carpenter as veteran options in recent years.
Heyward has struggled at the plate this season, with five strikeouts in his first 18 at-bats. His two hits and three RBIs have contributed more than Gurriel’s, but his batting line of.111/.190/.167 needs to improve quickly. Gavin Sheets is currently the sole left-handed outfielder on the squad, as well as the primary left-handed designated hitter.
Viable options
Brandon Lockridge joined the team due to his speed, baserunning, and defensive abilities. His offensive numbers come from only twelve games with the Padres last season, so he has not been thoroughly tested. He performed well in the minor leagues (.271/.348/.416 across all levels), and the organization may need to find out soon what he is capable of at the major league level.
It may also be time for Tirso Ornelas to show what he has. He started spring on fire, but tapered off as the games went on. He is left-handed and could be given an opportunity.
Connor Joe is primarily a first baseman but can also play outfield. Oscar Gonzalez, a right-handed power hitter with major league experience, could also be given a chance.
There is depth in the minor levels, and the Padres should not tolerate underperformance from their two subpar players for too long.
