Padres, Cal Mitchell Agree To Minor League Contract

The San Diego Padres have announced the signing of outfielder Cal Mitchell to a minor league deal, according to a report by Britt Ghiroli of the Athletic (X link). Mitchell, a San Diego native and product of Rancho Bernardo high school, returns home after being drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2017. His success in the low minors earned him a spot among the top 30 prospects in the Pirates’ system for several years.

After a strong performance in Triple-A in 2022, Mitchell earned his first MLB opportunity, but his offensive production was limited, leading to an assignment to Triple-A Indianapolis in 2023. However, his success did not match his previous season’s performance, as he struggled with a .261/.333/.414 line and a doubled strikeout rate of 29.4%.

With only two big league appearances, Mitchell was designated for assignment in September and became a minor league free agent at the end of the season. Despite his challenges, the 24-year-old (25 in March) will compete for a spot in the San Diego outfield during exhibition, although he is limited to the corners. The Padres currently have limited depth in the outfield, with Juan Soto and Fernando Tatis Jr. holding spots, alongside Taylor Kohlwey who occupies a 40-man roster spot after a strong showing in Triple-A.