Padres' AJ Preller reveals club's biggest need this offseason

The San Diego Padres come into the offseason looking for a new manager. Mike Shildt retired at the end of the season, citing that the game was taking too big a toll on him, via The Athletic's Dennis Lin.

There have been quite a few interesting names thrown around, like Scott Servais, former players Ryan Flaherty and Phil Nevin, and Albert Pujols. Pujols is set to interview with the Padres on Wednesday about the potential job. 

However, a manager is not the only hole they must fill over the winter. They are on the verge of losing some key players in free agency and have some decisions to make around players that have not lived up to expectations. 

Padres' AJ Preller reveals club's biggest need this offseason

There is a lot of uncertainty regarding the Padres' rotation. Dylan Cease is slated to become a free agent, and he has stepped up as the club's ace as of late. 

There is also a mutual option for Michael King, and the front office cannot go into the new season confident in what Yu Darvish has shown lately. 

Pitching will be a big focus for the club. President of baseball operations A.J. Preller revealed that this is what the team will focus on, via MLB.com's AJ Cassavell.

"The core foundation, in terms of the position-player group and the bullpen is there. Starting pitching is a clear area of need."

Luckily for San Diego, some intriguing starting pitchers will be looking for a home over the winter. The team could turn its attention to Framber Valdez or Ranger Suarez as a Dylan Cease replacement if he signs elsewhere.

More Padres news:

• Tarik Skubal trade linked to Mets, Red Sox, Dodgers, Phillies, Padres
• Padres trade idea for Rays' all-star lands Luis Arraez replacement
• Padres predicted to trade top 100 prospects Ethan Salas, Kruz Schoolcraft for $400 million Cy Young winner
• Padres one of two teams interested in Albert Pujols as Mike Shildt's replacement
• Padres linked to three-time All-Star as possible Luis Arraez replacement