Rosenthal: San Diego Padres' Stephen Kolek, Ryan Berger Drawing Interest

[Matthew Lenz]

It has been speculated that the San Diego Padres could be both buyers and sellers over the next week. Most notably, the team is reportedly open to moving rotation ace Dylan Cease, though they're also looking to add to the rotation, whether they deal Cease or not.

Moreover, Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic is reporting that teams are interested in San Diego Padres' pitchers Stephen Kolek, Ryan Bergert, Henry Baez, and Braden Nett.

Kolek, who transitioned into a starting role after being primarily a reliever in 2024, has a 4.28 ERA across 13 starts with the Friars. Kolek's strikeout rate (K%) sits at 17.3%, and his walk rate (BB%) is 7.4%, resulting in a lowly K-BB% of 9.9%. While he has shown flashes of potential, including one complete game shutout, he's allowed at least three runs in five of his last six starts. He is controllable through 2029, which is a significant advantage for any team acquiring the right-handed pitcher.

Bergert has had an intriguing season for the San Diego Padres, making six starts and 10 total appearances. He holds a respectable 2.84 ERA, though his FIP sits significantly higher at 4.26, suggesting that he might have benefited from some good fortune on balls in play. Bergert has recorded a solid K% of 23.1% but a below-average BB% of 10.8%. He was optioned to Triple-A El Paso in July, but like Kolek, he is controllable for many years.

Baez and Nett are both succeeding in the Double-A San Antonio starting rotation. Baez is already on the 40-man roster, while Nett would need to be protected this winter.

Should the Padres deal any of these arms? Join the conversation in the comments!

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