Chris Paddack Landing Spots: 3 best teams for ex-Padres, Twins pitcher after $12.525M deal ends

Veteran relief pitcher Chris Paddack became a free agent after his three-year contract with the Minnesota Twins ended at the end of last season.

The right-hander enters the offseason with a defined league profile. He debuted with the Padres before injuries reshaped his career path. Minnesota’s three-year extension was structured as a risk-managed bet rather than a long-term rotation commitment.

Paddack has been inconsistent over the last few seasons as his velocity has returned, but command and swing-and-miss results have fluctuated, narrowing his market this offseason.

Teams are not considering him as a rotation mainstay, but he remains relevant for teams seeking affordable depth. His profile suits short- to mid-term deals, flexible usage, and environments that are willing to adjust roles or workloads as performance dictates.

Three ideal fits for Chris Paddack

#1. San Francisco Giants

The San Francisco Giants have favored short-term pitching additions over long-term commitments to mid-rotation starters. Paddack would factor as back-end depth with the ability to move between starting and long relief.

Oracle Park limits damage on contact, and the club has emphasized command and pitch usage rather than velocity gains. Any agreement would likely be limited in length, with the role determined by early-season results.

#2. Tampa Bay Rays

The Tampa Bay Rays have consistently targeted pitchers with flexible usage profiles. The Rays are comfortable adjusting roles and limiting workloads as performance dictates. Paddack aligns with that approach.

He could be deployed as a bulk reliever or spot starter, with role adjustments made throughout the season.

Tampa Bay’s roster structure allows for that movement without disruption. Any deal would likely be limited in length and tied closely to usage.

#3. Pittsburgh Pirates

The Pittsburgh Pirates remain active in the lower end of the pitching market, focusing on arms that can provide innings without long-term commitments.

Paddack fits as a short-term starter or depth option while younger pitchers continue to develop. The Pirates would likely view him as coverage instead of a fixture.

PNC Park and a patient environment offer conditions where command-oriented pitchers can be evaluated over time. Any deal would likely be structured to preserve flexibility for both sides.

Edited by Chaitanya Prakash