Padres predicted to sign former rival $168M MVP, World Series champion, 2-time All-Star veteran

The San Diego Padres’ season came to an end at the hands of the Chicago Cubs in the NL Wildcard series. Then, the most unexpected news arrived: manager Mike Shildt announced he was retiring. It was a move no one saw coming.

“While it has always been about serving others, it's time I take care of myself and exit on my terms," Shildt said. "I gave every fiber of my being to help achieve Peter Seidler's vision of bringing a World Series Championship to San Diego. After 34 years of dedicating myself to the rigors of coaching and managing, I can with great enjoyment look back on achieving my two primary goals: To help players get the most out of their God given ability and become better men. Also, to win games."

However, during the offseason, the Padres aren’t just searching for a new manager—they’re also looking for players. MLB insider Jim Bowden believes Cody Bellinger could be a good fit.

“Bellinger’s ability to play above-average defense at all three outfield positions and first base increases his free-agent worth, although it looks like he’s found a home in left field,” Bowden wrote.

Bellinger is expected to become a free agent this winter, likely opting out of his current contract.

“As expected, New York Yankees outfielder Cody Bellinger plans to opt out of his contract and become a free agent next month, a source told ESPN. Bellinger, 30, has a $25 million player option for next season. After a rebound season in his first year in pinstripes, he presumably will receive widespread interest in free agency—it should yield a lucrative multi-year contract,” ESPN’s Jorge Castillo wrote.

The Padres would be adding a versatile player capable of contributing anywhere on the field. Once a rival with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Bellinger’s potential move to San Diego could be beneficial in multiple ways.

If the deal goes through, it will be interesting to see where Bellinger spends most of his time on the field. It seems likely that first base or left field would be his primary positions.

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