The Padres introduced that they’ve reinstated outfielder Fernando Tatis Jr. from the 60-day injured listing, as beforehand reported. In corresponding strikes, they optioned outfielder Bryce Johnson and designated outfielder José Azocar for project.
Azocar, 28, has been largely serving as a speed-and-defense depth participant for the Padres in recent times. He has appeared in 214 video games over the 2022-24 seasons however solely been despatched to the plate 397 occasions. He has produced a batting line of .243/.287/.322 in these journeys to the plate, which interprets to a 74 wRC+. However he has stolen 18 bases whereas additionally producing eight Outs Above Common and two Defensive Runs Saved within the outfield.
The Friars have ceaselessly optioned him to the minors in that point however he will probably be out of choices after this yr. That may have made it more durable for the Padres to maintain him on the 40-man, so he’s been got rid of right now. He additionally hasn’t helped his case a lot with the bat within the minors, as he has slashed .276/.309/.402 in 438 plate appearances at Triple-A for the reason that begin of 2023, manufacturing that results in a wRC+ of 70.
Since we’re within the post-deadline a part of the schedule, the Friars must put Azocar on waivers within the coming days. If any membership has curiosity in Azocar’s specific talent set, they might put in a declare after which hold Azocar on optionally available project for the remainder of the yr, although he could have much less roster flexibility in the long term.
