Earlier this week, the San Diego Padres signed outfielder Oscar González to a minor league contract, according to the MLB.com transactions log. This marks one of the Padres’ first moves of the offseason, with González assigned to Triple-A El Paso as he begins his time with the team.
The talented outfield prospect has yet to secure a steady role in the majors. González, who signed with Cleveland as an international free agent in 2014, started in the minors in 2016. He was named the Arizona League MVP in his first season and quickly advanced through the minor leagues, reaching Triple-A in 2021.
González made his MLB debut with the Guardians in May 2022, and appeared in 91 games that season, posting a .296/.327/.461 slash line with 107 hits, 39 runs, 11 home runs, and 43 RBIs.
However, his second season in the majors was a struggle. In 2023, González posted a disappointing .214/.239/.312 slash line with 37 hits, 15 runs, 2 home runs, and 12 RBIs. His wins above replacement (WAR) dropped to -1.4, signaling a notable slump.
Following the 2023 season, the New York Yankees claimed González off waivers, but he was later sent down to the minors. González missed some time early in the 2024 season due to an orbital fracture, but bounced back to play 78 games in Triple-A. He performed well, slashing .294/.333/.469 with 84 hits, 51 runs, 8 home runs, and 43 RBIs during that span.
With the Padres’ outfield currently featuring Jackson Merrill and Fernando Tatis Jr., and Jurickson Profar hitting free agency, González could have an opportunity to earn playing time if the Padres either re-sign Profar or bring in another outfielder. At 26 years old and coming off a solid minor league season, González still has significant potential and could be a valuable addition for the Padres if he can reach that potential.
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