The San Diego Padres have a potential dark horse in Bryan Hoeing, who was acquired in a trade with the Miami Marlins on July 30, 2024, as part of the trade deadline acquisitions. Hoeing, a right-handed pitcher, made his MLB debut in 2022 and has been a valuable asset for the Padres in their push toward the postseason.
Hoeing's journey began with the Marlins, where he was drafted in 2019. In 2022, he made his MLB debut, pitching 12.2 innings in eight games, allowing 19 hits and 17 earned runs. The following year, he transitioned into a swing man role for the Marlins, pitching 70.2 innings across seven starts and 33 games, with an ERA of 5.48, 53 strikeouts, and 25 walks. In 2024, he started with a similar role, pitching 30 innings over two games started and 16 games total, boasting a 2.70 ERA at the time of the trade.
Hoeing's strengths lie in his plus-command and a fastball that he only throws about five percent of the time (93 mph). His sinker, splitter, and slider are effective in inducing ground balls and quick outs. This versatility makes him a valuable asset in a bullpen, especially with young or innings-limited starters in the rotation.
However, the 2025 season was a setback for Hoeing due to a shoulder injury before Spring Training. He returned to pitching in June and joined the Padres in late June, but his effectiveness waned. Optioned to Triple-A El Paso in late July, he struggled with a 4.70 ERA in 14 games over 15.1 innings, with 16 strikeouts and six walks. Despite this, his numbers with the Padres were respectable, with a 1-0 record and a 3.38 ERA in seven games and eight innings pitched, with five strikeouts and three walks.
With a full offseason and normal spring buildup, the organization and fans should witness the pitcher they traded for in 2024. Hoeing's reliance on control and command, rather than velocity, positions him as a potential back-of-the-rotation spot starter or swing man/long reliever. This role suits him well, as he has experience in it and is ideally suited for a strong team.
In an interview, Hoeing expressed his openness to starting or relieving, embracing his role as the 'Swiss army knife' on the pitching staff. His versatility and health can significantly extend the effectiveness of a pitching staff, especially with high-leverage arms among the relievers. As Spring Training approaches, we should closely monitor Hoeing's progress to see how well he can bounce back.
