Welcome to our series grading every member of the San Diego Padres’ 40-man roster. The roster evaluation is current as of October 18, prior to the conclusion of the World Series, and includes players who will become free agents once the postseason ends. Each individual is graded on their 2026 performance, inclusive of the playoffs, with weight given to the amount of time spent with the team.
Garrett Hawkins’ Path and 2025 Transition
Garrett Hawkins, the organization’s No. 30 prospect, was drafted by San Diego in 2021. Across 119 minor league games and 237 2/3 innings, the right-handed pitcher has recorded a 3.86 ERA, a 1.26 WHIP, and 307 strikeouts. Following Tommy John surgery in 2024, Hawkins moved to the bullpen in 2025. This shift proved seamless, as he registered a 1.50 ERA and struck out 80 batters over 60 innings.
Struggles and Overall Grade
Due to that production, Hawkins earned a spot on the 40-man roster to shield him from the Rule 5 draft before the 2026 campaign. Anticipated to reinforce the San Diego pitching staff this year, he instead encountered difficulties in the minors. Although his strikeout rate remained steady with 65 strikeouts in 54 1/3 innings, his ERA climbed to 5.47 as he struggled to prevent runs.
The 26-year-old pitcher possesses an elite fastball paired with a serviceable slider and changeup, a repertoire drawing comparisons to former San Diego closer Robert Suarez. Command issues ultimately derailed his 2026 campaign, as he issued 13 additional walks despite pitching 5 1/3 fewer innings.
Hawkins still projects as a potential contributor to the bullpen for the Friars in 2027. A strong Spring Training could land him on the Opening Day roster, depending on offseason relief retention. With potential departures from Jason Adam, Yuki Matsui, and Adrian Morejon, Hawkins could emerge as a significant piece for San Diego moving forward.
