San Diego Padres Add Former Top Prospect Pitcher

The San Diego Padres recently claimed right-handed pitcher Luis Patiño off waivers from the Chicago White Sox.

This move signifies a return for Patiño, as he originally began his professional career with the Padres before being traded.

Patiño, who is just 24 years old, has been noted for his promising potential, which includes a diverse four-pitch mix featuring a sinker, slider, four-seam fastball, and changeup​​.

#Padres claim RHP Luis Patino from the #WhiteSox.

He was shipped to the Rays in the Blake Snell trade before the 2021 season.

— Jeff Sanders (@sdutSanders) December 22, 2023

Patiño, once a top prospect in the Padres' farm system, ranked as high as #3 in 2020.

However, his journey took a turn when he was included in a trade package to Tampa Bay Rays in 2020 for Blake Snell.

Despite the high expectations, Patiño did not quite live up to the anticipated performance during his time with the Rays and subsequently with the White Sox, who designated him for assignment earlier in the week​​.

Under the tutelage of Coach John Kentera, new Padres traveling instructor, there’s no reason Luis Patiño couldn’t be a 3-4 WAR pitcher imho https://t.co/fNXzN0JpGL

— HJ Preller (@HJPreller) December 22, 2023

The Padres' decision to claim Patiño off waivers is seen as a low-risk move with potentially high rewards.

Given his young age and the skills he has displayed, there is optimism that under the guidance of Padres pitching coach Ruben Niebla, Patiño might be able to realize his upside and contribute effectively to the Padres' roster.

Over his four-year career, Patino holds a 5.02 ERA, 1.50 WHIP, with 124 strikeouts across 136.1 innings and 45 appearances (23 starts)

Photo Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports