The San Diego Padres are very right handed heavy when it comes to their infield. They did something about that on Tuesday.
According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, the Padres have signed Rougned Odor. AJ Cassavell from MLB.com noted that it is a minor league deal, although he will have a chance to earn a spot on the major league roster.
Rougned Odor hoping to rediscover form with San Diego Padres
There was a time when Odor appeared on the cusp of becoming a solid major league option for years to come. He posted a respectable 106 OPS+ with 49 homers and 54 doubles in his 1102 plate appearances between 2015 and 2016, chipping in 20 steals. While there were some reasons for concern as Odor drew just 42 walks, his youth and powerful bat made it probable that he could be a long term option in Texas.
Instead, Odor’s last great hit involved Jose Bautista’s jaw. While he did have a passible 96 OPS+ in 2018, that was his last relatively competent season. Odor has produced a meager 78 OPS+ over the past six years, with 116 homers and 109 doubles in his 2748 plate appearances. While he hit for some power, he was just never able to recapture that form from his earlier career.
But there is always a chance that will change. Odor just turned 29 years old despite being in the majors since 2014. It is possible that being on a team where he will not need to carry the offensive load will make a difference. The Padres, who desperately need a left handed bat amongst their crop of infielders, are hoping that will be the case.
The San Diego Padres are giving Rougned Odor a chance. Maybe this time, he can finally turn his career around.
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