BARLOW SAN DIEGO BOUND
The San Diego Padres acquired pitcher Scott Barlow from the Kansas City Royals for pitchers Henry Williams and Jesus Rios.
What does it give the San Diego Padres
Barlow was one of the most underrated closers in baseball prior to this season, on a Royals team that was not winning much. However, his numbers have dipped this season. With Josh Hader cemented as the closer, Barlow will likely see most of his work in the eighth inning. He could possibly become the Padres' closer in 2024 if Hader departs via free agency.
What does it give the Kansas City Royals
Williams was the Padres' No.10 prospect (according to MLB.com). He has spent the year as a starter in Single-A ball. He has the profile (6'5", 200 pounds) to be a starting pitcher in the future. Rios is currently pitching in the Dominican Summer League. He has potential but is a long way away from MLB. For a rebuilding team like Kansas City, this is a solid return.
Fantasy impact
Barlow will lose some fantasy appeal now that he will not be closing games. He was already racking up fewer strikeouts, so this is another blow for his fantasy owners. Williams is too far away to have any value. Ditto Rios.
