Padres Sign Miguel Andujar to Add Depth for 2026 Season

With free agency entering its later stages, MLB teams are largely looking to add depth rather than land high-impact players. On Wednesday, the San Diego Padres made a move to strengthen their bench by signing Miguel Andujar, a former New York Yankees corner infielder and outfielder, to a one-year contract worth $4 million. The deal gives San Diego a versatile player capable of contributing at multiple positions while adding veteran experience.

Andujar, 30, spent the 2025 season splitting time between the Cincinnati Reds and Oakland Athletics, finishing with 1.1 fWAR. While far removed from his 27-home run, 3.9 fWAR campaign in 2018 with the Yankees, he brings positional flexibility, having logged innings at third base, first base, and both corner outfield spots.

The signing comes as the Padres address offseason roster changes, including the departure of first baseman Luis Arraez to the San Francisco Giants. With a gap at first base and depth considerations across the infield and outfield, Andujar offers a low-risk option for a team with playoff aspirations.

While Andujar may not be in line for a full-time starting role, he provides insurance in key positions and could carve out regular at-bats depending on performance in Spring Training and roster moves throughout the season.

1. Andujar’s Versatility

One of the primary appeals of Andujar is his positional flexibility. Though he primarily played third base last season, he has experience at first base and in the corners of the outfield, making him a useful roster option for a team managing injuries or resting starters. This versatility allows the Padres to experiment during Spring Training with multiple alignments while maintaining depth in critical areas. Andujar can slot in as a starter in emergencies or serve as a pinch-hitter, depending on the team’s needs. While his bat hasn’t matched his 2018 peak in recent years, Andujar’s experience and ability to play multiple positions provide a tactical advantage over younger, less-proven alternatives. For a team like San Diego, which balances playoff ambitions with roster flexibility, having a player capable of filling multiple roles adds insurance and strategic options down the stretch.

2. Offensive Production

Andujar’s offensive output has been inconsistent since his breakout 2018 season. While that year saw 27 home runs and a 3.9 fWAR, subsequent seasons have failed to match that level. His most recent performance in 2025 resulted in 1.1 fWAR across stints with two different teams, highlighting challenges in maintaining consistent production. Despite these limitations, Andujar has shown flashes of power and the ability to drive in runs when given regular playing time. Teams that acquire him are betting that a fresh start and a defined role can help unlock some of that former potential. The Padres may not intend for him to be an everyday starter, but his bat could provide situational value, particularly as a designated hitter or pinch-hitter in key games. Even limited offensive contributions could prove meaningful in tight playoff races, making Andujar a calculated depth signing rather than a marquee addition.

3. Role with the Padres

With Arraez’s departure, first base is temporarily open, with Gavin Sheets projected to see most of the playing time. However, strong performance by Andujar in Spring Training could allow him to compete for starts at first base or in the designated hitter role. The Padres likely see him as more of a depth piece rather than a full-time starter, but his presence allows flexibility across the infield and outfield. This could help the team weather injuries, late-season slumps, or strategic matchups during their playoff push. Given San Diego’s playoff ambitions, Andujar provides insurance and veteran presence without a major financial commitment. His ability to play multiple positions and contribute offensively in a limited role aligns with the Padres’ current roster strategy. Ultimately, Andujar’s signing reflects the Padres’ goal of balancing depth, flexibility, and low-risk veteran talent as they approach Spring Training and the 2026 season.