Spring training usually decides stars — but in San Diego, the biggest drama might come from the very last roster spot.
And according to Craig Stammen, the Padres’ toughest decision may still be ahead.

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Rewritten Article

Padres’ Final Bench Spot Turns Into One of Spring’s Most Intense Battles

The San Diego Padres entered spring training with most of their roster already taking shape.

Starting roles are largely defined. Core stars remain locked in. The rotation picture is beginning to settle.

But hidden beneath those headlines lies one surprisingly intense competition — the battle for the Padres’ final bench spot.

And according to manager Craig Stammen, the decision is far more complicated than simply picking the hottest hitter.

As camp progresses, that final roster spot has quietly become one of the most strategic decisions the Padres will make before Opening Day.

The Bench Picture So Far

Several pieces of San Diego’s bench already appear close to set.

Current projections suggest the group will likely include:

• Luis Campusano — serving as the backup catcher
• Either Nick Castellanos or Miguel Andújar — depending on who secures the starting role
• Sung-Mun Song, whose four-year MLB contract strongly positions him to make the roster

With those roles largely accounted for, only one bench position remains available.

And the list of contenders is growing.

A Crowded Race for One Spot

Several players are now competing for the final place on the roster:

• Jose Miranda
• Bryce Johnson
• Mason McCoy
• Samad Taylor
• Ty France
• Will Wagner

Each brings a different skill set, which only makes the decision more complicated.

Miranda and Taylor — both entering camp as non-roster invitees — have impressed early with their offensive production.

Johnson already proved his value last season, providing dependable outfield defense and speed when called upon.

France carries a strong reputation from his time as an All-Star caliber hitter.

Meanwhile, McCoy and Wagner offer valuable versatility that could fit multiple game situations.

For the Padres’ coaching staff, choosing between them isn’t simply about performance.

It’s about how each player fits into the larger roster puzzle.

What Craig Stammen Is Really Looking For

Stammen made it clear that the decision goes far beyond batting averages or spring stat lines.

“You want somebody off the bench that’s going to scare an opposing pitcher if you want to pinch-hit him,” Stammen explained.

“But you also need guys who can do special things — be puzzle pieces, play different positions, steal a base, and be strategic defensively.”

In other words, the Padres are searching for something very specific.

The ideal candidate must offer:

• Pinch-hitting power that can change a game late
• Defensive versatility across multiple positions
• Speed and baserunning value
• Situational impact in tight games

It’s not just about talent.

It’s about flexibility.

Why Versatility Could Decide Everything

Two key players may indirectly shape the outcome of the competition: Sung-Mun Song and Nick Castellanos.

If those two prove capable of covering multiple defensive positions effectively, the Padres could prioritize a player with the most dangerous bat off the bench.

But if defensive coverage becomes a concern — especially in center field — the calculus may shift.

That’s where Bryce Johnson could suddenly gain serious momentum.

Speed and defense often become critical in late innings, particularly in close games where a single run can decide the outcome.

That kind of role often determines who survives the final roster cut.

Spring Training Opportunity

The current roster dynamics have created a unique opportunity.

With Fernando Tatis Jr., Xander Bogaerts, and Manny Machado temporarily away for the World Baseball Classic, several roster hopefuls are receiving extended playing time.

That means more at-bats.

More innings in the field.

More chances to prove their value.

For players fighting for the final spot, these extra opportunities may determine their future.

Every Moment Matters

Spring training may look relaxed from the outside, but for players on the roster bubble, every moment carries weight.

A well-timed hit.
A stolen base.
A key defensive play.

Those small moments can shape careers.

And for the Padres, the final bench spot isn’t simply about filling a roster line.

It’s about finding the right strategic weapon for the long 162-game season ahead.

As Stammen and the Padres’ coaching staff continue evaluating talent, one thing is clear:

This job won’t be handed out.

It will be earned.