A surprise team has emerged in the pursuit of Xander Bogaerts in free agency.
The San Diego Padres are seeking to add a shortstop, and they like Bogaerts, according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post.
San Diego could use infielder Ha-Seong Kim in a super-utility role, while Fernando Tatis Jr. could move to the outfield, notes Heyman.
Tatis, who started 240 games at short for the team from 2019-21, didn't play last season because of a wrist injury and PED suspension. He's had issues staying on the field at a demanding position due to multiple injuries and will miss the beginning of the 2023 campaign to serve the remainder of his ban.
Bogaerts slashed .307/.377/.456 with 15 homers and 73 RBIs over 150 games in 2022. He's a four-time All-Star, five-time Silver Slugger, and two-time World Series champion over 10 years with the Boston Red Sox. The club has said re-signing the 30-year-old is a top priority.
The Minnesota Twins are also reportedly interested in Bogaerts if they can't bring back Carlos Correa.
