SAN DIEGO, CA – With the Padres hanging by a thread in the playoff race, they no longer have the patience to “wait for luck”. According to sources from Héctor Gómez, this team is “very dangerous” in the job of Marcell Ozuna – one of the hottest writers in MLB right now.
And if this deal really happens, the entire NL West could move on.
Why are the Padres so “thirsty” for Ozuna?
Marcell Ozuna – 33 years old, is living a resurgent season. As of the end of July, he is recording .295 AVG / 27 HR / 85 RBI – stats that any team lacking offensive power will pay attention to.
With Manny Machado and Fernando Tatis Jr. yet to reach their peak form, and the DH and outfield positions constantly rotating, Ozuna is the perfect piece to the Padres’ “dead” offense.
“He can immediately take down the offensive power of the lineup,” – one NL coach commented.
Biggest problem: MONEY and TRUST
Ozuna’s contract is still running through the end of the 2025 season, worth $ 16 million / year – a large number for the Padres budget shrinking after years of violence. However, the Braves are said to be willing to listen, especially if they receive potential quality from the San Diego farm system.
In addition, Ozuna’s troubled off-field past cannot be ignored – including the domestic violence scandal in 2021. The Padres will have to consider not only the professional, but also the image of the club in the eyes of the fans.
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/72716284/usa_today_21549090.0.jpg)
What are the Braves thinking?
Although Ozuna is playing extremely well, the Braves are known for being a cold-blooded organization when it comes to transfers. With young talents like Jarred Kelenic, Travis d’Arnaud, and a host of potential prospects, “selling high” Ozuna to change pitching depth may be a strategic option.
An inside source said:
“The Braves don’t want to keep a player until he’s 35 with a $16 million burden if they already have enough young arms to replace him.”
If the incident happens?
The Padres’ lineup will immediately be upgraded by cleaning up Ozuna’s fighting position.
Locker room pressure will mount, especially if Ozuna fails to stay consistent.
The Braves could get a 1–2 pitcher or potential bullpen depth, something they’ve been lacking due to injuries.
Could this be a make-or-break… move?
The Padres are playing for time. They need a “trigger” to explore the offseason, and Ozuna—with all his talent, risk, and ego—is a big card they’re willing to play.
And if that works, the NL WILD CARD race will be officially on fire.