NL West: Díaz settles in as primary catcher in SD

San Diego Padres

With C Luis Campusano optioned to Triple-A El Paso at the end of spring training, C Elias Díaz should see the vast majority of playing time over 38-year-old veteran backup C Martín Maldonado. While the Padres certainly hope that Campusano can figure out how to return to the hitter from 2023, Díaz will serve as the primary C while Campusano works on things at El Paso. With Maldonado a significantly below average option at this point in his career, Díaz should get the vast majority of ABs for the time being and should be a consideration for fantasy managers in deep, two-catcher leagues. Díaz has started six of the Padres first eight games behind the plate.

At a time when there are several top-tier catchers starting the...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

Carlos Rodón's return to the Yankees rotation is nearing and Gerrit Cole's could be close behind. How does this affect the Yankees' rotation? Plus, more from around the AL East.
May 5 2026 3:05am
This week, we make the bold case for a Rockies starter—even in Denver—and we take a peek at two overlooked NL West first basemen who deserve more attention.
May 2 2026 3:05am
Pedro Ramírez is demonstrating real power at AAA Iowa, could there be a path to MLB playing time for one of the minor's hottest hitting infielders?
May 1 2026 3:05am
Three key Twins hitters have yet to deliver on the promise they offered as prospects, and time may be running out. Plus, a closer look at Shane Smith, Daniel Schneemann, and Jack Flaherty, and the KC bullpen.
Apr 30 2026 3:05am
The Rangers offense is sputtering and a change at 2B could help kick start their offense.
Apr 29 2026 3:06am

Tools