Padres pursuing free agent Ty France to fill first base void

The San Diego Padres are actively pursuing free agent first baseman Ty France to fill a void left by departures. France, a 2025 AL Gold Glove winner who split time between the Twins and Blue Jays last season, is considered an elite defensive first baseman with a strong clubhouse presence. Despite a career-low seven home runs in 2025, he hit .257/.320/.360 and is viewed as a potential full-time starter. The Padres are reportedly one of three teams competing for his services, with a low-risk, cost-effective deal ($3-5M) expected.