Salas, once considered the Padres' top international free agent signing at $5.6 million, has seen his development hampered by injuries and a .221 career batting average in three minor league seasons. Despite offensive struggles, his elite defense (70-fielding, 60-arm grades) keeps him in the conversation for potential major league call-up.
With the Padres lacking an Opening Day roster spot for him, Salas will likely begin the 2026 campaign in the minors as he works to overcome the challenges that have stalled his promising career.