Padres Lose Nate Freiman In The Rule V Draft

The Padres talked about the difficult decisions that they needed to make on all the minor league talent they have, coming to the conclusion that they would lose a player or two. The organization’s dilemma came to fruition, when the Astros selected Nathan Freiman in the 2nd round of the Major League portion of the Rule 5 Draft.

Freiman had a huge year in AA San Antonio, posting a triple-slash line of .298/.370/.502, with 24 homers and 105 RBI’s. Freiman was not considered a “top prospect,” but the year he had did open eyes in the organization. He played for Team Isreal in the World Baseball Classic qualifying rounds and represented the Padres in the Arizona Fall League.

Freiman will have a huge opportunity in Houston, as the Astros do not have a long-term solution at first base or designated hitter. Houston must keep him on the 25-man roster all season, or offer him back to San Diego for $25,000.

In the Triple-A phase of the draft, the Padres lost OF Sawyer Carroll, who was selected by the Toronto Blue Jays. Carroll was the Padres 3rd round pick in 2008. He spent 2012 playing for AAA Tucson, hitting .263 in 112 games.

The Padres opted not to select a player in the Major League phase of the draft.