MLB insider critiques "Padres spent so much money on Fernando Tatis Jr., Manny Machado, Xander Bogaerts," but still looking for shortstop solutions

Among all NL West teams, the San Diego Padres have managed to keep up with the high-spending LA Dodgers in terms of star players and performance. The Padres boast an array of stars, notably Fernando Tatis Jr., Manny Machado and Xander Bogaerts, whose contracts with the team total $970 million.

Despite all that money invested in the infield — $340 million for Tatis, $350 million for Machado and $280 million for Bogaerts — the Padres still don't have a set everyday shortstop. Tatis was moved to right field after they onboarded Bogaerts who was then shifted to second base, leaving the shortstop position vacant for an everyday starter.

MLB Insider Robert Murray appeared on "The Baseball Insiders" on Friday to discuss the Padres’ concerns at shortstop and whether they are looking to address the position with a big name.

"As for the Padres, it's funny to hear people ask what their plan is at shortstop when they've spent so much money on shortstops in previous offseasons," Murray said (26:30 onwards). "I mean, look at Tatis or Machado — they knew what Machado was when they signed him — and then Xander Bogaerts as well. They've invested a lot in that position already.

"I don't have a firm name for you regarding their plan at shortstop, I'll just be totally honest there. But I'll repeat it again, Drew: I don't expect any big names there. That's the current reality of where we're at right now."

MLB insider reports Padres not in contention to land Willy Adames at shortstop

Among the high-profile names available at shortstop, Willy Adames stands out. The shortstop is coming off a career year, registering career highs in home runs (32), RBIs (112) and stolen bases (21). One would expect the Padres to be bidding for him, but MLB insider Jon Morosi said otherwise.

According to the insider, the Padres haven't shown interest in Adames and are not expected to do so. The Los Angeles Dodgers, Atlanta Braves, San Francisco Giants and Boston Red Sox are among the teams looking for an upgrade at the position.

Padres general manager AJ Preller has a task cut out for him. The team either needs to find an internal solution at shortstop or pursue a trade to address the pressing need.