The news has been available for just hours: Jake Cronenworth and the San Diego Padres have agreed to the terms of a seven-year contract extension.
Twice representing the Padres in the All-Star Game, Cronenworth will therefore wear the uniform of the California team until he is 36 years old. Until then, he will try to lead the Padres safely, that is to say until the World Series. Last season, the team’s fans got a taste of what the ultimate quest could be with some good playoff moments.
A star among superstarCronenworth made his way quietly into the Majors, becoming an important cog in Bob Melvin’s lineup.
Arbitration-eligible this offseason, Cronenworth and the Padres avoided that process by signing a season-long pact valued at just over $4 million. The contractual extension will begin in 2024.
By agreeing to a long-term agreement with their second base player, the Padres ensure good stability in the infield. Manny Machado and Xander Bogaerts are already under contract for the next few years and only Ha-Seong Kim remains to be retained.
This season, the Padres have high hopes of seeing Fernando Tatis Jr. return to action following a 20-game suspension.
Cronenworth is in his fourth season in San Diego. On his 2020 debut, he finished second in the Nationals Rookie of the Year, trailing Devin Williams of the Brewers.
The team leaders appreciate in him his intelligent reading of the game and his great versatility, he who can also play at shortstop, as well as at first base.
With the Cronenworth case settled, GM AJ Preller’s attention will now be on Josh Hader and Trent Grisham. Both players are part of the equation in San Diego and they too could earn longer-term deals. Perhaps Juan Soto will also be evaluated in the medium term.
By collecting good statistics in 2023, Ha-Seong Kim could also shop for a multi-season contract in San Diego.
The Padres’ focus remains first in the Nationals West and a pitched battle with their Los Angeles rivals. We bet that Jake Cronenworth is doubly motivated to ensure that his team achieves its goals.
