For the San Diego Padres, the player most often brought up in rumor and speculation by fans and media alike is Fernando Tatis Jr. The two-time Platinum Glove winning right fielder is a cornerstone of the San Diego franchise.

The San Diego Padres are heading into 2026 in a period of transition. Former manager Mike Shildt has retired, with Craig Stammen stepping in to lead the club. The roster is expected to undergo significant turnover as payroll flexibility remains tight, and several players are likely to depart via free agency.

San Diego Padres general manager AJ Preller admits that Fernando Tatis Jr. is viewed as untouchable in trade negotiations.

Padres outfielder Fernando Tatis Jr. has been the subject of trade rumors recently, and fans now have an update on his status.

MLB's Winter Meetings are over. The San Diego Padres have work to do. Would they consider a trade of Fernando Tatis, Jackson Merrill, or Mason Miller?

As a result, Fernando Tatis Jr. briefly emerged as a potential trade candidate, given his contract is considered affordable and any contender would welcome his level of production. However, the Padres quickly shut down that speculation on Monday,

Could a headline-grabbing swap be in the works between the two NL rivals? Visit MLB Trade Rumors for all the prominent names under discussion.

Despite all the Padres’ private and public messaging, Preller said other teams have not stopped asking about Tatis.