The San Diego Padres are exploring potential solutions for their left-field position as injuries have plagued their outfield this season. While several players, including veterans and young talents, have shared duties in left field, none have established themselves consistently. Gavin Sheets has emerged as a strong player but has been limited in playing time due to a collision injury.
A promising option from within the organization could be Trenton Brooks, a Triple-A standout. Since joining the Padres on a minor league deal in November 2024, Brooks has impressed with a .312 batting average, .417 on-base percentage, and .615 slugging percentage over 56 games with the El Paso Chihuahuas. His 143 wRC+ indicates he has been significantly more effective than the average Triple-A hitter.
Brooks, a versatile player who has experience in both outfield and first base, has demonstrated remarkable power this season, hitting 14 home runs and driving in 53 runs. Notably, his plate discipline sets him apart, as he boasts a 14.7% walk rate coupled with a low strikeout rate of 16.3%, placing him in the upper echelon for Triple-A batters.
Despite his past struggles in the majors with the San Francisco Giants, where he made his MLB debut in 2024, Brooks has rebounded in Triple-A and shows potential for significant contributions at the big league level. His strong performance against both right-handed and left-handed pitchers makes him an exciting candidate to fulfill the Padres’ immediate needs in left field.
The Padres are hopeful that Brooks could serve as a valuable addition to their lineup, providing both power and consistency while they navigate the challenges of their current outfield situation.
Overall, the Padres may have identified a diamond in the rough in Brooks, which could prove beneficial as they aim to maintain their competitive edge in the league.