According to AJ Cassavell of MLB.com (via FantasyPros), Díaz is becoming the leading candidate to be the Padres’ starting catcher in 2025.
“This spring has been disappointing for the Padres at the catcher position, but Díaz has somewhat pulled ahead as the likely starter. While Campusano possesses the greatest potential, Díaz offers the most reliability, especially defensively,” Cassavell stated.
Padres: Diaz could beat out 2024 starter Luis Campusano
Díaz is gearing up for his 11th MLB season after joining San Diego’s minor league system in August 2024, following an 84-game stint with the Colorado Rockies.
The 34-year-old posted a .265 batting average with 39 RBIs last season. In 2023, he earned All-Star honors, recording 14 home runs, 72 RBIs, and a .267/.316/.409 slash line.
Díaz has a strong chance to surpass Campusano, who has primarily handled catching duties for the Padres over the past two seasons. While Díaz is slightly more consistent offensively, Campusano holds a slight edge defensively.
As Spring Training continues, Padres manager Mike Shildt will likely gather enough insight to make his final decision.
