Padres Debut Hays With Two-Run Homer; Peralta Talks
The San Diego Padres signed outfielder Austin Hays to bolster depth, highlighting his left-handed batting against Southpaws and willingness to play corner outfield while providing a much-needed right-handed option off the bench after injury-plagued strains. In addition, despite his uncertain 2026 season, the Padres are also viewed as a likely destination for a major free-agent pitcher like Freddy Peralta, signaling a broader push to strengthen the rotation this offseason.