The Padres know they need more elite-level starting pitchers to be a legitimate World Series contender.
But since before last season ended, even as he spoke of all that needed to be done for the Padres to get better, A.J. Preller maintained his belief the Padres were in a good spot with their rotation.
They have four proven starters in Joey Lucchesi, Dinelson Lamet, Chris Paddack and Garrett Richards. Cal Quantrill, who was excellent for portions of his rookie season, also remains. Zack Davies was acquired in a trade with the Brewers last month. And there are at least two more young pitchers edging closer to the major league roster.