The San Diego Padres have designated outfielder Bryce Johnson for assignment to clear roster space for the return of Xander Bogaerts from the paternity list. The move brings the team’s 40-man roster to 39 players and signals another shift in the Padres’ struggling outfield.
Johnson, 30, was acquired by the Padres in a mid-April 2024 trade with the Pittsburgh Pirates in exchange for catcher Brett Sullivan. That season, he put together a career year, slashing .342/.383/.434 over 55 games and 84 plate appearances. His 135 wRC+ was well above league average, and his defensive versatility made him a valuable asset. However, that success has not carried over into 2026. In 49 plate appearances this season, Johnson hit a dismal .178/.229/.222 with a 30 wRC+ and a 36.7% strikeout rate.
The Padres have struggled offensively all season, ranking last in the majors in runs, batting average, on-base percentage, slugging percentage, and wRC+. Johnson’s poor production has only deepened the team’s woes. He has appeared in 32 games this year, starting 12, and has played all three outfield positions. His departure adds to an already unsettled Padres outfield, which has seen Ramón Laureano sidelined by a likely season-ending hip injury and Nick Castellanos recently released.
With Johnson designated, the Padres have five days to trade him before placing him on waivers. His $805,000 salary and defensive flexibility make him a potential asset for a contender in need of a utility outfielder. If no trade materializes, Johnson can choose to accept a minor league assignment or opt for free agency, as he has the right to decline a demotion due to prior outright denials.
The Padres have turned to Samad Taylor and Jase Bowen from the minors to bolster the outfield alongside Fernando Tatis Jr., Jackson Merrill, and Gavin Sheets. Tatis has primarily played second base over the past month but could return to the outfield if Will Wagner sees more time at second, as reported by Jeff Sanders of the San Diego Union-Tribune.
Johnson’s DFA marks the latest roster adjustment for a Padres team in need of offensive stability. The next five days will determine whether he finds a new home or heads to free agency.
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