Brandon Lockridge secures spot on Padres' roster

Outfielder Brandon Lockridge has secured a spot on the San Diego Padres' Opening Day roster, as confirmed by AJ Cassavell from MLB.com. This makes him the fourth and final bench player for the team. The other three spots will go to veterans Yuli Gurriel, Jose Iglesias, and Martín Maldonado. Lockridge's inclusion will impact six players still in camp: Luis Campusano, Connor Joe, Mason McCoy, Oscar Gonzalez, Tyler Wade, and Eguy Rosario. Campusano, Joe, and McCoy have options and are expected to be sent down to Triple-A. Gonzalez, who is on a minor league deal, can also be moved but has an opt-out clause this season. Wade and Rosario cannot be sent down and may be traded or designated for assignment soon. This move could clear space for Gurriel, Iglesias, and Maldonado on the team's 40-man roster. Lockridge, 28, debuted in the majors last year with limited success. He had a batting line of .167 in 12 at-bats. However, in the minors over the past four years, his performance has improved, with a .278 average and 122 stolen bases. He has experience playing in all outfield positions. Wade, 30, has struggled with his batting in his eight-season career, with a .217 average. He was expected to fill a utility role for the Padres but may now be headed out after the team signed Iglesias. If designated for assignment, other clubs could claim him or he may choose free agency. Rosario, 25, has played in the majors over the past three seasons but has a limited number of plate appearances. His performance in the minors has been much stronger, with a batting average of .279. Despite being out of options, he could attract interest from other teams due to his prospects and versatility in the field.