AJ Preller sends a clear message about San Diego’s 2026 roster
With San Diego Padres in rumors surrounding star players team can still win, the football club no doubt wants to make a big splash in 2026. How The Padres are led by Fernando Tatis Jr. Manny Machado and many others, general manager AJ Preller talk about the team’s chances in the upcoming season.
Speaking to the media on Thursday, Preller would be asked about how he feels about San Diego from a roster standpoint and how it compares to last season. According to 97.3 The Fan, Preller would talk about the moves made at the trade deadline that give him a feel that this team was made for the playoffs.
“I think we’re coming in with a team that has the ability to be a playoff team and has that look,” Preller said. “So that’s how I feel when we’re starting right now. I think some of the work at last year’s trade deadline was designed for the players that they have to fill the holes, and the guys that with (Ramon) Laurino and (Freddy) Fermin and (Mason) Miller and (JP) Sears, you know, the guys that are going to come in.”
AJ Preller was asked what he thought of the current state of the Padres’ roster compared to this time last year: pic.twitter.com/vfJV61K671
— 97.3 The Fan (@973TheFanSD) February 12, 2026
AJ Preller on envisioning the Padres as World Series contenders
While it is The Padres are gearing up for spring training around the corner, the goal is usually for every team to compete for a World Series title. However, Preller easily envisions his team playing in October.
“I think it’s targeted for the starting rotation, one or two more at-bats with (Miguel) Andujar,” Preller said. “I feel like we have a team that’s going to be competitive, have a real chance to look and play in the World Cup, go play in October. But we also understand that we have to do some work to kind of round out the team.”
San Diego is looking to improve further after finishing 90-72 last season, which placed them in second place in the NL West, as they were eliminated by the Chicago Cubs in the wild card round.
2026-02-12 19:47:00
