MLB Rumors: Padres Talking Trade For All-Star Outfielder

The San Diego Padres are still hoping to fill their lineup with another big bat, and word has it that they have their eyes on the Pittsburgh Pirates' All-Star outfielder Bryan Reynolds. 

The San Diego #Padres have engaged in trade talks this spring with the Pittsburgh #Pirates in an attempt to acquire All-Star outfielder Bryan Reynolds. The Padres have pitching depth, and young pitchers Chris Paddack and Ryan Weathers have been mentioned in discussions.

— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) March 31, 2022

According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, the Padres "have engaged in trade talks" with the Pirates. He says pitchers Chris Paddack and Ryan Weathers have been mentioned as possible trade pieces from the Padres. 

Reynolds is still under team control for four years, and is coming of a All-Star season in which he batted .302 with a .912 OPS. The 26-year-old also had a strong rookie season in 2019, finishing 4th in Rookie of the Year balloting, though he suffered through a miserable shortened 2020 season, failing to hit .200.

Outfield depth concerns in San Diego

That the Padres would be looking to secure Reynolds is no surprise to anyone. Manager Bob Melvin has been vocal about his lack of options in the outfield at this point. “Outfield depth right now is a little bit of a concern,” he told The San Diego-Union Tribune." He's even considering moving the team's top prospect, CJ Abrams, an infielder, to the outfield.

But whether the Pirates would be willing to let a controllable player like Reynolds go, remains to be seen.

Photo Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports