San Diego Padres Cap Off Deadline By Adding Reliever Hunter Stratton

[Matthew Lenz]

 

The San Diego Padres had a massive deadline, acquiring two top-of-the-rotation arms in Robbie Ray and Casey Mize. After hanging on to their relievers, particularly Mason Miller and Adrian Morejon, they continued to add to their bullpen depth as the clock struck midnight on the trade deadline.

The San Diego Padres acquired reliever Hunter Stratton from the Pittsburgh Pirates, and then immediately optioned him to Triple-A El Paso. They gave up minor league reliever Andrew Moore in the deal.

Stratton, 29, has only made three appearances in 2026. For his career (60 appearances), he has a 3.88 ERA (3.89 FIP) and a 14.6% strikeout-minus-walk rate, though he has struggled each of the previous two seasons. He is controlled for at least three seasons beyond 2026.

Essentially, the Padres flipped a reliever who isn't ready for big-league action for one who theoretically could be. What do you think of the move? Join the conversation in the comments!

 

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