San Diego Bolsters Offense with Miguel Andújar
The San Diego Padres have reached a one-year agreement with the experienced player Miguel Andújar, who will bring versatility and offensive power to the team, according to sources close to MLB. The official announcement by the club is still pending.
Andújar’s contract, which is expected to be worth US$4 million, could include up to an additional US$2 million in performance-based incentives.
Andújar, who will turn 31 in March, is coming off a strong season in 2025, playing for the Athletics and the Reds, where he achieved a batting average of .318 and an OPS of .822. However, an oblique injury limited him to 94 games, missing a significant part of the season.
During the previous season, the Dominican player participated at first base, third base, and left field. In San Diego, he is projected primarily as a designated hitter and pinch hitter, with possible occasional defensive appearances.Roster Adjustment in San Diego
The incorporation of Andújar becomes relevant, especially after the statements of manager Craig Stammen, who envisions Gavin Sheets as the team’s starting first baseman. This opens up the designated hitter position, a role that Andújar could take advantage of, especially against left-handed pitchers.
It is anticipated that Andújar will be the primary designated hitter against left-handed pitchers, with the possibility of alternating at first base, allowing for greater flexibility in the lineup and the inclusion of other right-handed hitters.
Stammen has indicated that the designated hitter position will be used on a rotating basis throughout the season, with the aim of keeping key players like Manny Machado, Xander Bogaerts, Fernando Tatis Jr., Ramón Laureano, and Jackson Merrill fresh.Expectations for Parents
Andújar showed a marked performance difference depending on the type of pitcher in 2025, recording an OPS of .986 against left-handers, significantly surpassing his production against right-handers. This makes him a key piece in situational lineups.
In addition, he has experience and good numbers as a pinch hitter, accumulating an OPS of .833 in his career. Although he is not known for drawing many walks, he stands out for his contact ability and occasional power, characteristics that could be valuable at Petco Park.
While it’s unlikely he’ll replicate the offensive explosion of his rookie season in 2018, when he hit 27 home runs, Andújar brings depth, versatility, and a reliable bat to a roster seeking greater offensive balance for the 2026 campaign.
