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The San Diego Padres face a pivotal offseason, with starting pitching at the forefront of their needs. However, the club also must resolve a question mark at first base, where Ty France is set to become a free agent. While the Padres have three core infielders under long-term contracts, an addition is not out of the question.
One potential target emerging is New York Yankees All-Star Jazz Chisholm Jr., who is slated to reach free agency this winter. Chisholm is not expected to receive a one-year qualifying offer valued at $23.1 million, opening the door for other teams to pursue him. According to Mark Feinsand of MLB.com, San Diego is viewed as one of the top landing spots for Chisholm, who could replace France at first base.
Feinsand suggested that if the Padres sign Chisholm, they could shift Jake Cronenworth to first base and install Chisholm at second, unless they opt to trade Cronenworth. The rationale is clear: San Diego struggled against left-handed pitching in 2026, slugging just .384 from the left side, which ranked 23rd in the majors. As Feinsand wrote, "Second base is one of the logical spots for the Padres to upgrade, as they could move Jake Cronenworth to first base to open the spot for somebody such as Chisholm." He also noted that Chisholm's flamboyant style, which sometimes clashed with the Yankees' culture, would fit seamlessly in the Padres' clubhouse.
Chisholm's Offensive Profile
Chisholm endured a down year at the plate in 2026, batting .231 with a .711 OPS, 19 home runs, 55 RBIs, and 109 hits across 137 games and 471 at-bats. His batting average was his lowest since his rookie season. The 2025 campaign, however, was a breakout: he joined the 30-30 club for home runs and stolen bases. Entering 2026, Chisholm boldly predicted he would reach the 50-50 plateau, but he ultimately finished with 19 homers and 41 steals.
The 28-year-old has also drawn criticism for his attitude, with some observers questioning whether his production justified his occasionally lackadaisical demeanor. As a result, Chisholm is unlikely to command the blockbuster contract once projected for him, making him a potentially cost-effective option for San Diego. Beyond his power-speed combination, his energy and confidence would be a welcome addition to the Padres' roster.
While the infield is not the Padres' top priority, first base remains a clear need. If the team chooses not to re-sign France, Chisholm would represent a compelling and significantly younger consolation prize.