Padres consider keeping top prospect Ethan Salas as trade discussions loom

The San Diego Padres may choose not to trade catcher Ethan Salas, their top prospect with an.849 OPS at Double-A, due to his significant potential. Star players Manny Machado, Fernando Tatis Jr., and Jackson Merrill have struggled offensively, prompting the need for upgrades at the trade deadline. Padres president A.J. Preller has previously been aggressive in trades but may view Salas as too valuable to part with despite potential trade talks. Salas, who just turned 20, is expected to need more time in the minors before being promoted to the Majors.

• 5:40 PMYahoo Sports — Padres' .849 OPS top prospect may be 'too valuable' to trade away