Tigers Rumors: Jose Iglesias to the Padres makes sense
By Andy Patton
The Padres already struck a deal for a good defensive shortstop this offseason, swinging a trade for former Phillies infielder Freddy Galvis. Galvis will settle into San Diego’s starting shortstop role. He is coming off a 20 home run, 17 stolen base season in Philadelphia.
However, San Diego is still thin up the middle and presently does not have anyone else capable of playing shortstop on their roster.
The Padres currently have Galvis and Carlos Asuaje pencilled in up the middle. They will have Chase Headley starting at third base with Wil Myers over at first.
That leaves Cory Spangenberg and Christian Villanueva vying for utility roles on opening day.
Spangenberg has never played shortstop and Villanueva has only played three games there in his career.
According to Padres beat reporter Dennis Lin, the team is looking for a “versatile veteran infielder who can back up Freddy Galvis at shortstop”.
Jose Iglesias would fit right in as an extremely experienced shortstop who has also played some third base in the major leagues. While he does not have much experience at second base, his prowess at shortstop would make him an elite defensive second baseman as well, if needed.
According to Jon Heyman of FanRag Sports, the Padres have been connected to Alcides Escobar on the open market. They could pursue him even after acquiring Galvis.
Heyman also noted both J.J. Hardy and Alexi Amarista as potential options for the Padres.
Iglesias certainly provides the versatility and experience at shortstop that the Padres crave. Could a deal between the two be reached?