The Padres' outfield corps is a force to be reckoned with, boasting a talented trio that's poised to make a splash in the 2026 season. With a projected WAR of 11.5, they're right behind the Yankees' primary outfielders, who lead the pack with 13.7 WAR.
But it's not just about numbers. Each member of the Padres' outfield trio has something to prove. Fernando Tatis Jr., returning from a steroid suspension, aims to regain his MVP form. Jackson Merrill, despite injuries, is determined to stay on the field as consistently as he did during his rookie year. And Ramón Laureano, fresh off a strong 2025 season, seeks to secure a lucrative free-agent contract.
The Padres' fourth outfielder, Bryce Johnson, is a switch-hitter who hit .342/.383/.434 in 84 plate appearances during his second tour with the team. The organization also has Tirso Ornelas, a 25-year-old prospect with one minor league option year left, providing depth. Sung-Mun Song, a newcomer, will get a chance to showcase his versatility in the outfield.
Gavin Sheets, initially a first baseman, has proven his versatility in the outfield, and he'll likely get the first crack at first base. The Padres' recent drafts have bolstered their outfield depth with power-speed prospects like Ryan Wideman, who signed for $650,000 as a third-rounder out of Western Kentucky, and Kavares Tears, a fourth-rounder from Tennessee who hit 13 homers in 107 games at Lake Elsinore.
Additionally, the Padres have discovered undrafted gems like Braedon Karpathios, who reached Double-A San Antonio with a .720 OPS, and Alex McCoy, a 6-foot-6, 260-pound slugger who hit six homers in 53 games at Lake Elsinore, his first full-season affiliate experience.
