Freddy Fermin named Padres' starting catcher for 2026 season

Freddy Fermin has solidified his position as the San Diego Padres' starting catcher for the 2026 season. Acquired in a surprising trade deadline move, Fermin quickly stabilized the team's catching situation. Having honed his skills behind future Hall of Famer Salvador Perez with the Kansas City Royals, he now enters the season as the clear starter, with Luis Campusano vying for the backup role.