A perfect Padres trade target emerges as Brandon Marsh could help address outfield issues

Padres’ outfield needs

San Diego has several areas to address this offseason, including starting pitching and its offense. The Padres’ offense struggled late in the postseason, while the team also had limited production from left field during 2026.

Injuries contributed to that shortfall. Ramon Laureano and Luis Rengifo had season-ending injuries, Gavin Sheets was not fully healthy, and Samad Taylor, despite batting .316, also could not stay healthy while filling in.

Phillies may consider changes

Nightengale of USA Today identified the Phillies as a possible trade partner. He reported that Philadelphia wants a third baseman and left fielder and is looking to make significant changes.

Nightengale said Brandon Marsh and Trea Turner are available, while Kyle Schwarber and Bryce Harper are staying. Marsh, a left fielder, made his first All-Star team in 2026 and recorded career highs of 18 home runs and 62 RBIs.

Potential fit in San Diego

Marsh’s production fell in the second half of 2026 after a strong first half. That decline differed from his usual post-All-Star-break performance across six major-league seasons. The Athletic’s Dennis Lin reported that the Padres could consider using incumbent right fielder Fernando Tatis Jr. at second base more regularly to make room for an above-average corner outfielder. Tatis has previously said he prefers playing in the infield, while Jake Cronenworth could be a trade piece or provide first-base depth.

Other roster considerations

Cronenworth has made 266 appearances at first base across seven seasons, giving San Diego another option at a position with limited depth. That need follows Ty France’s departure in free agency.

The reports describe Marsh as a possible target, but do not establish that a trade is underway. Any move involving Tatis or Cronenworth could affect how the Padres address both the outfield and infield.