Top Catching Prospects to Watch in the Padres’ Farm System
Despite some struggles in 2024, top Padres catching prospect Ethan Salas remains the team’s catcher of the future, with his potential firmly intact. After a challenging season at High-A Fort Wayne, where he made adjustments to his batting mechanics, Salas’ performance in the Arizona Fall League was a bright spot.
He hit four home runs and earned a spot in the AFL All-Star game, solidifying his status as one of the organization’s top talents. Signed as an international amateur from Venezuela for $5.82 million, Salas is viewed as an All-Star-caliber catcher with both offensive and defensive potential, including leadership in managing pitching staffs.
While Salas progresses, the Padres’ catching depth includes other prospects like Luis Campusano, who struggled in his first stint as a starting catcher in 2024 but remains a contender for the 2025 role. Meanwhile, Brandon Valenzuela, who advanced to Triple-A El Paso after overcoming a season-ending injury in 2022, is recognized for his strong defense, though his offense still lags behind.
Brendan Durfee, a 14th-round pick in 2024, showed promise at Lake Elsinore before a tougher stretch in the Arizona Fall League. Lamar King Jr., a 2022 fourth-round pick, is developing into an offensive-minded catcher after overcoming a shoulder injury, while Anthony Vilar, who transitioned from second base to catcher, remains a versatile option despite a tough stretch at Double-A.
With these prospects, Salas remains the focal point of the Padres’ catching future. His continued development could see him advance to Double-A San Antonio in 2025, as the Padres focus on building a strong, long-term catching core.
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