Padres News: In the midst of injuries, Nick Ahmed signed with the Padres as defensive depth
After just two years, Nick Ahmed has signed a minor league contract with the San Diego Padres, his fourth team in the National League West. The Arizona Diamondbacks dismissed the former Dodgers shortstop last season, capping up a lengthy career with the franchise during which he appeared in 888 games from 2014 to 2023.
Ahmed spent a brief time with the San Francisco Giants this season prior to signing with the Padres. Before being released in July, he had a poor hitting career, finishing with a.232 batting average and one home run in 172 plate appearances. After injuries kept Miguel Rojas and Mookie Betts out of action, the Dodgers called him up. Ahmed made an instant impression by hitting a home run in his debut against the Giants. But after making 14 starts and finishing with a.229 average in 49 plate appearances, he was designated for assignment.
Ahmed has a.232 batting average over 221 plate appearances this season thanks to his combined efforts with the Giants and Dodgers. Primarily recognized for his defensive abilities, he was awarded two Gold Gloves while he was a member of the Diamondbacks. Ahmed will provide the Padres depth at shortstop, particularly with Ha-Seong Kim out due to a shoulder injury right now. In Kim’s absence, the Padres have been employing Mason McCoy and Tyler Wade; Ahmed’s deal gives the organization more choices.
