San Diego Padres Signed Veteran Shortstop Jose Iglesias to a One-year Contract.
In a move to bolster their infield depth, the San Diego Padres have signed veteran shortstop Jose Iglesias to a one-year contract. The 34-year-old infielder, known for his smooth defensive skills and veteran leadership, joins the Padres as they look to make a strong push in the National League West.
Iglesias, who has played for multiple teams during his 10-year Major League Baseball (MLB) career, brings a wealth of experience to the Padres’ lineup. Most recently, he played for the Colorado Rockies in 2024, where he continued to showcase his strong glove and ability to make plays in the field. Over his career, Iglesias has earned a reputation as one of the best defensive shortstops in the game, with a career fielding percentage that consistently ranks among the league’s best.
While his bat has never been his defining characteristic, Iglesias has been a reliable hitter throughout his career, providing steady contact and occasional extra-base power. His ability to handle pitching from both sides of the plate has made him a valuable asset in the bottom half of the lineup, and his consistency at shortstop has always been a cornerstone of his value. With a career .276 batting average, Iglesias offers the Padres a solid option both defensively and offensively.
For the Padres, the addition of Iglesias is seen as a crucial move to solidify the middle of their infield, particularly with their high expectations for the 2025 season. San Diego’s infield has experienced some turnover in recent years, and Iglesias’ presence will provide stability and leadership to a team that boasts a talented but young roster. His ability to mentor younger players and serve as a steady hand on the field could prove invaluable as the Padres look to make a deep run into the postseason.
“Jose Iglesias is the type of player who brings both skill and character to our team,” said Padres general manager A.J. Preller. “His defensive acumen and experience will make an immediate impact, and weโre excited to see how he contributes to our success in 2025.”
Iglesias has also played for the Detroit Tigers, Cincinnati Reds, and Baltimore Orioles throughout his career, and his reputation as a defensive wizard has earned him the admiration of both fans and fellow players alike. As the Padres gear up for the new season, Iglesias will be looking to add to his already impressive resume while helping San Diego achieve its championship aspirations.