Report: Padres still in talks with Desmond
The San Diego Padres have had their eye on free agent Ian Desmond all offseason, and they're still hopeful the shortstop will covet a move to the National League West.
Desmond's agent is having ongoing discussions with the Padres, although a deal doesn't appear close at this time, according to FOX Sports' Jon Morosi.
San Diego is desperately seeking an upgrade at the position after Alexi Amarista recorded the worst OPS (.544) of any NL player with at least 300 at-bats last season.
Desmond has more homers (88) than any other NL shortstop over the past four seasons, and would add some much needed punch to an anemic Padres offense.
2015 TEAM STATS
| Category | Stats | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Runs/G | 4.01 | 23 |
| BA | .243 | 30 |
| OPS | .685 | 28 |
| HR | 148 | 19 |
| SB | 82 | 17 |
No shortstop has compiled more wins above replacement (10.7) from 2012-2014 than Desmond, who posted a .788 OPS while averaging 23 homers and 22 stolen bases per season over than span. He is, however, coming off a lackluster 2015 campaign, hitting .233/.290/.384 with 19 homers and 62 RBIs in 156 contests.
Desmond rejected a qualifying offer from the Washington Nationals last fall, so the Padres would forfeit their top unprotected pick in the 2016 draft if they sign him.