Padres could 'aggressively add' at trade deadline for unexpected ownership reason

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May 22, 2026 - 15:53

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Padres could 'aggressively add' at trade deadline for unexpected ownership reason originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The San Diego Padres are 29-20 this season, and would very likely end up as trade deadline buyers in a perfect world. But, with a new ownership group, it's reasonable for fans to worry about how the team will operate at the deadline.

However, the new ownership group led by Jose E. Feliciano and Kwanza Jones might actually bring some good news for Padres fans at the trade deadline.

ESPN's Buster Olney believes, just like the Tampa Bay Rays' new ownership group, the Padres owners might give A.J. Preller the green light for a deadline where he could "aggressively add" talent to the roster.

Padres ownership might give green light to A.J. Preller for aggressive trade deadline

"Well, the Rays' ownership group is new and attempting to sway voters in Hillsborough County to support an initiative for an ew ballpark -- and it'll be in a position to greenlight Neander to aggressively add before the deadline," Olney writes. "Same with the incoming owners in San Diego (and we know that Preller doesn't need a big push to make moves at the deadline)."

If the Padres follow a similar path as the Rays, both clubs with new ownership groups might be in store for a fun deadline, acting as buyers.

The Padres acquired Mason Miller at the deadline last year, along with Ryan O'Hearn, Ramon Laureano, and Freddy Fermin.

This year, San Diego is likely to seek help for their infield, outfield, starting rotation, and even their bullpen, despite having Miller dominating this season.

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If ownership, as Olney alludes to, is willing to commit to spending at the deadline, then Preller might have the chance to add some truly incredible talents.

One player worth keeping a very close eye on would be Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal. He might be available for trade, and Preller might be one of only a few executives to even consider the huge package for Skubal.

This rumor from Olney, while not anything concrete, is still one worth getting excited about. There's a chance the new owners sign off on Preller spending big at this year's deadline, which could feature some very exciting trade options.