What if the Padres signed Manny Machado? How about Bryce Harper? What if they traded for JT Realmuto?

It’s been a quiet offseason when it comes to actual transactions, but the Padres have been active in conversations with just about everyone. Three names have dominated the rumor mill, and rightfully so. The Padres have expressed interest in both of the game’s biggest free agents in Manny Machado and Bryce Harper, and they’ve engaged in trade talks involving JT Realmuto. How would each of these moves work with the current Padres roster, and what future impacts would they have?

Why: At age 26, Machado would bring four All-Star appearances and two Gold Gloves to a team that has a clear need at shortstop and third base, and the idea of pairing him with Fernando Tatis Jr makes Padres fans weak in their knees.