Acquired by the Padres in a trade back in May, Luis Arraez expressed his excitement for the stability of knowing his future playing destination. He even mentioned his interest in a longer-term deal to stay with San Diego beyond the 2025 season.
Arraez stated, “It means a lot of good things. If they want to sign me, I want to stay here. This is business. I understand the business. But I hope I stay here for a long time.”
Heading into arbitration, Arraez is projected to earn $14.6MM this winter. Despite his unique skill set, his defensive value is limited, and his offensive performance is hindered by poor plate discipline and lack of power.
An injury may have impacted Arraez’s production this year, as he revealed playing through a thumb injury and is undergoing an MRI now that the Padres’ season is over.
The Padres could consider a long-term deal with Arraez at a lower salary to manage their payroll, especially with upcoming needs in the rotation and outfield. Previous examples show the team’s willingness to structure contracts creatively to fit within their financial plans.
Although there are obstacles to overcome, including Arraez’s value as a player, his desire to stay in San Diego aligns with the team’s respect for his skills. Whether a long-term deal becomes a reality remains to be seen.
