Eric Lauer and the San Diego Padres are exploring a possible reunion as spring training is here. 

The San Diego Padres need pitching.

Three pitchers from last season’s starting rotation (Nick Martinez, Seth Lugo, and Michael Wacha) are now members of other franchises. The Padres’ best pitcher from the 2023 season (Blake Snell) will be employed by another organization in the next few weeks.

Sure, the team acquired four serviceable pitchers from the Yankees, led by right-hander Michael King. But, you get a sense the team needs a few veteran arms.

Motivation goes a long way in the game of baseball at the professional level.

Pitchers who are looking for a big payday or have something to prove are worth their weight in gold

Eric Lauer is a free agent. And he is hungry.

“I am feeling better than I have in any off-season. I am excited for this year,” Lauer told EVT last week. The Brewers released Lauer in late October after a frustrating year for the pitcher. Lauer only totaled 46 innings on the year after battling through pain in his non-throwing shoulder. Mechanical issues plagued the pitcher all year as he could not find his proper timing on the bump.

Lauer insists the shoulder is fine and frankly, since he is a southpaw, his right shoulder is not a huge concern moving forward.

At the age of 28, Eric Lauer surely has a lot left in the tank.

He has totaled 596.2 innings pitched in six years of major league service time. In that span, Lauer owns a 4.30 ERA and a 1.366 WHIP. For San Diego, Lauer was 14-17 with a 4.40 ERA and a 1.460 WHIP in two seasons and 53 games. He was dealt to Milwaukee in November of 2019 with Luis Urias for Trent Grisham and Zach Davies.

The Padres and Lauer have talked, but nothing is set in stone yet.

“Lots of interest, but no contract talks yet,” Lauer explained to EVT last week.

Pitchers and catcher reported today. The Padres’ staff is taking shape. Eric Lauer will be employed relatively soon. That is a fact. If the Padres care to add him to their roster, then the clock is ticking. An incentive-rich deal for a year or two may get the deal done. Lauer needs to establish his worth, and the Padres need a hungry pitcher to eat innings. It looks like a marriage made in heaven. Only time will tell.

James Clark

James was born and raised in America’s Finest City. He is a passionate baseball fan with even more passion towards his hometown Padres. Editor-In-Chief of EastVillageTimes.com. Always striving to bring you the highest quality in San Diego Sports News. Original content, with original ideas, that’s our motto. Enjoy.