Part 7/11:
Addressing the bullpen remains a priority. The postseason exposed vulnerabilities—Jeff Hoffman and others weren’t reliable enough as closers or high-leverage arms. The arrival of Dylan Cease increases roster strength but underscores the need for at least one or two reliable late-inning relievers.
Trade speculation includes Padres reliever Adrien Morhone, a breakout star with elite statistics, and names like Pete Fairbanks or other high-leverage relievers. The general consensus is that ignoring bullpen upgrades would be irresponsible, given the team’s ambitions for a deep postseason run.