BREAKING NEWS: Baltimore Orioles Free agent center Cedric Mullins has agreed to a three-year, $21.5 million deal with……Sen Diego Padres……

BREAKING NEWS: Cedric Mullins Signs Three-Year, $21.5 Million Deal with San Diego Padres

In a surprising free agency move, the San Diego Padres have signed former Baltimore Orioles center fielder Cedric Mullins to a three-year, $21.5 million contract, multiple sources confirmed Sunday morning.

Mullins, 30, had spent his entire MLB career with the Orioles, where he emerged as one of the American League’s most dynamic outfielders. Known for his elite defense, speed on the basepaths, and occasional power, Mullins was a fan favorite in Baltimore and a 2021 All-Star.

The move fills a key outfield need for the Padres, who have been reshaping their roster following a disappointing 2024 season. Mullins is expected to slot in as the everyday center fielder and leadoff hitter, bringing a strong glove and base-stealing threat to the top of San Diego’s lineup.

In 2024, Mullins posted a .257 batting average with 14 home runs, 53 RBIs, and 29 stolen bases over 132 games. While his offensive numbers dipped slightly from his 2021 peak—when he joined the exclusive 30-30 club—he remains a valuable two-way player.

Padres GM A.J. Preller praised Mullins’ consistency and work ethic in a brief statement:

“Cedric brings a high level of energy and competitiveness to the field every day. We believe he’s a perfect fit for the style of baseball we want to play.”

This marks the Padres’ first major acquisition of the 2025 offseason and signals a continued commitment to competing in a crowded National League West division.

Mullins took to social media shortly after the news broke, thanking Orioles fans and expressing excitement about the next chapter of his career:

“Baltimore will always have a place in my heart. Grateful for the opportunity and ready to get to work in San Diego! Let’s go, Padres!”