The Padres' spring training begins with a familiar roster, but a new set of uncertainties. The team faces potential drama with an impending ownership change, a new manager, and the status of A.J. Preller's contract. The Padres' success in the late-offseason market for starting pitchers is notable, with acquisitions like Sean Manaea, Michael Wacha, Dylan Cease, and Nick Pivetta. They also seek another bat, with a recent one-year deal with Miguel Andujar. The team's new owner is yet to be determined, with potential buyers including Joe Lacob, Dan Friedkin, and Jose Feliciano. The manager, Craig Stammen, is a familiar face to the players, but his leadership as a first-time manager will be a key focus during spring training. The Padres' history is marked by drama, with recent seasons impacted by pitching injuries, player revolts, and leadership voids. Despite these challenges, the team has thrived, with a strong record in the COVID season and four playoff appearances in the past six seasons. The Padres' 2026 outlook is uncertain, with FanGraphs projecting them as a sub-.500 team. The new manager's anti-drama approach is a key strategy to navigate potential storms, aiming to keep the focus on the important aspects of the game.
