The San Diego Padres have shifted from a decade of aggressive roster-building under owner Peter Seidler and president A.J. Preller to a more conservative approach following Seidler's passing in November 2023. The franchise, once synonymous with blockbuster trades and massive contracts, is facing a pivotal moment as control of the team is disputed among Seidler's family members.

In recent offseasons, the Padres have seen standout performances from players like Jackson Merrill and Manny Machado, but the team's depth has become a pressing concern. With key players like Jurickson Profar and Ha-Seong Kim still on the free-agent market and the rotation weakened by injuries, the team is at a crossroads. Moreover, their pursuit of Japanese pitcher Roki Sasaki highlights the desire for impactful acquisitions amid financial constraints.

Luis Arraez has made a remarkable mark in MLB history by winning three batting titles with three different teams in consecutive years. Currently with the San Diego Padres, he is generating trade rumors due to his $14.6 million salary for the upcoming season and the team's financial constraints.

Despite his exceptional bat-to-ball skills, questions about his power may influence the Padres' decision to potentially trade him. His impressive performance last season, where he posted a .314 batting average, suggests he would attract interest from other teams.

Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes has been awarded the 2024 NL Rookie of the Year, marking a historic achievement in his first MLB season. Skenes, who was the first overall pick in the 2023 MLB Draft, is the first rookie pitcher since 1995 to start an All-Star game.

With a remarkable record of 11-3 and a 1.96 ERA, Skenes has set franchise records and is a finalist for the NL Cy Young award. His humble demeanor shines through as he reflects on his accomplishments and the support he has received.

Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes has been named the NL Rookie of the Year, earning 23 out of 30 first-place votes, with San Diego Padres' Jackson Merrill receiving the remaining votes. This year's NL Rookie ballot saw only four players receiving votes, the fewest since 1980.

Despite a strong performance, Chicago Cubs' Shota Imanaga finished fourth. Skenes, the top pick in the 2023 MLB Draft, also contends for the NL Cy Young award, while Merrill and Milwaukee Brewers' Jackson Chourio had impressive seasons as well.

Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes has been named the National League Rookie of the Year after an impressive season, making his debut on May 11 and earning a spot in the All-Star Game. He finished with an 11-3 record and a 1.96 ERA, striking out 170 batters.

In the American League, Luis Gil of the New York Yankees took home the Rookie of the Year award, narrowly defeating Baltimore's Colton Cowser. Gil had a strong season with a 15-7 record and 171 strikeouts.