Overview

• San Diego’s season ended with a Game 3 loss to the Cubs in the NL Wild Card Series, setting up a pivotal winter.
• The rotation could be reshaped as Dylan Cease approaches free agency and Michael King’s future hinges on a mutual option.
• All-Star closer Robert Suárez said he is weighing his contract option for 2026, signaling a potential bullpen change.
• A power shortage persisted in 2025 with just 142 home runs, and the lineup may lose contributors such as Luis Arraez and Ryan O’Hearn.
• Long-term payroll commitments drop from roughly $220 million in 2025 to a bit over $150 million for 2026, while a depleted farm system limits internal fixes.