Alex Verdugo (Image Credit: Getty Images)
Alex Verdugo was the last Yankees slugger to strike out against Walker Buehler as they lost the World Series in 2024. Verdugo’s stint in the Bronx had mixed reactions from many fans. The slugger started out well and then embarked on a tough path, failing to score in crucial moments.

Yet, he picked up the pace during the playoffs and did a decent job from the defensive end. The Yankees seem to have moved on from Verdugo, as they are not too keen on bringing him back to the Bronx. Furthermore, not many teams have shown significant interest in signing the outfielder.

Verdugo is not too bad of a player to be ignored completely. He’s just 28, with many more years of productivity to come. Despite playing for three top teams, Alex Verdugo has yet to find a team he could call home. Things could change for the slugger in 2025, as one of the NL West teams might be the perfect fit for him.

San Diego Padres Could Be A Landing Spot For Alex Verdugo

The Padres are planning on cutting down their payroll, and they have Jurickson Profar’s spot to fill. San Diego might be able to strike a deal with Verdugo if it’s easy on their pocket. The former Yankees slugger might perform better in a Padres uniform.

Mike Shildt (Image Credit: Getty Images)
The Padres may support Verdugo, especially since they are not pursuing Profar. The Padres are not interested in big market players, which is convenient for Verdugo. The slugger could sign a short-term contract and build his career going forward.

It’s hard for a player to be in the World Series and then wait for teams to sign him. Verdugo’s position is crucial as he might jump at any opportunity that comes his way. Plenty of left-fielders in the market have a slightly better chance than Verdugo.

The Oakland Athletics are also one of Verdugo’s favorite landing spots. However, it’s pretty certain that the Yanks are not too interested in retaining him. On the other hand, Profar’s rumors seem to be heating up as we head into the New Year.