Why the Padres’ 2026 Season Could Surprise Everyone — and What It Means for MLB’s Future – Page 10

Sheets is a power-hitting lefty first baseman who plays league average defense but has significant splits versus left-handed pitchers. A platoonmate for first base is an area of emphasis for Preller this offseason. Andujar plays first, Castellanos has started working out at first during the offseason and Preller added first baseman Ty France to the mix on Monday morning. Signed to a minor league deal, France has the best glove of the group with 10 OAA (outs above average) ranking for his range as an infielder. His overall fWAR for 2025 was 1.0.

There are multiple options now for the starting group in the infield and a stiff competition should take place for the right-handed platoon piece for Sheets at first base. Minor league sign Jose Miranda is a bounce-back candidate for the infield. Minor league depth includes Marcos Castanõn, Franciso Acuna, Nick Solak, Samad Taylor and Romeo Sanabria. All were non-roster invites to spring camp.

Catchers

Things get really interesting behind the plate in 2026. Freddy Fermin is the frontline catcher but has never been the top guy before and will need to ease into increased playing time to avoid what we saw last year after his trade to San Diego. With the wear and tear of playing almost every game, Fermin’s offense deteriorated significantly.