2023 NL West preview: San Diego Padres

Photo by Lambert/Getty Images 2022 record: 89-73

2023 projection: 91-71

Estimated 2023 payroll: $249 million ($214m in 2022)

Major departures: Brandon Drury, Jurickson Profar, Josh Bell, Sean Manaea, Wil Myers

Major arrivals: Xander Bogaerts, Michael Wacha, Nick Martinez, Matt Carpenter

It’s startling to think that four years ago, the Padres had an Opening Day payroll estimated at just $94.4 million - 24th in the league, and $13 million less than the Diamondbacks. This year, they will trail only the two New York teams, and have ten different players who will earn an eight-figure salary in 2023. Owner Peter Seidler is credited for this surge, though he has actually been a part owner since 2012.…