Players Who Have Played for Both the Diamondbacks and Padres in june 2025

Discover key MLB stars who’ve suited up for both teams in the Padres vs. Diamondbacks rivalry. Follow their career moves and lasting impact.

Introduction

Baseball isn’t just about scores or statistics. It’s about stories. It’s about the players who take the field, the journeys they go on, and the jerseys they wear along the way. One of the more interesting storylines in the Padres vs. Diamondbacks rivalry? The players who’ve worn both uniforms.

If you’ve ever noticed a familiar name show up in “enemy” colors, you’re not alone. Some players build their legacy bouncing between rival teams, and in the case of the San Diego Padres and Arizona Diamondbacks, there’s a surprisingly long list of guys who’ve made the jump.

So, let’s rewind the tape and take a closer look at the stars, role players, and game-changers who’ve crossed this National League West divide.

Table of Contents

1. History of the Padres vs Diamondbacks Rivalry

Let’s be real—this isn’t Yankees vs Red Sox, but Padres vs. Diamondbacks games always have a little extra spice. Ever since Arizona joined MLB in 1998, the two teams have battled for bragging rights in the National League West.

These matchups are often tight, filled with walk-off wins, playoff tension, and those unpredictable baseball moments fans love. Over time, what started as just another divisional game grew into a rivalry with real meaning.

And when a player switches sides? That’s when it gets really interesting.

2. Why Do Players Switch Teams?

It’s a fair question: why would someone go from one dugout to the other—especially in the same division?

Simple: baseball is part sport, part business. Teams trade to get better. Players sign contracts to secure their futures. Some are looking for more playing time; others just want a fresh start.

It’s like changing jobs in any career—sometimes it’s about opportunity, sometimes about timing. And in the fast-moving world of MLB, change is always around the corner.

3. Top Notable Players Who Played for Both

Over the years, quite a few names have popped up on both rosters. Some were stars. Others were role players. But each brought something to the table.

Here are the standout names:

• Greg Maddux – Hall of Famer who lent wisdom to both clubs.
• Ian Kennedy – Workhorse pitcher with impact seasons for each.
• Adam Eaton – Small in size, big on hustle.
• Jhoulys Chacín – Steady and underrated.
• Justin Upton – A slugger who made noise in both ballparks.
• Craig Breslow – Not flashy, but effective.

Let’s take a closer look at what they brought to each team.

4. Greg Maddux: Veteran Experience

Sure, Greg Maddux is known best for his time with the Braves and Cubs, but in the late 2000s, he made a stop with the Padres and briefly—very briefly—with the Diamondbacks.

In San Diego, he wasn’t just a pitcher; he was a mentor. His ability to outthink hitters was legendary. Even though his Diamondbacks days were limited, his experience rubbed off on younger guys around him.

Imagine having a Nobel Prize winner drop in to teach your college class for a semester. That’s the kind of impact Maddux had.

5. Ian Kennedy: A Reliable Arm

Kennedy was never the flashiest pitcher, but boy, was he dependable.

With the Diamondbacks, he had his best year in 2011, winning 21 games—yes, 21! He later moved to San Diego, becoming a stable figure in their rotation.

His story is one of quiet consistency. Not always in the headlines, but often the reason teams stayed in the game.

6. Adam Eaton: Hustle and Heart

Eaton made his debut with the Diamondbacks and was a burst of energy right from the start. He wasn’t a power hitter, but his speed and scrappy playstyle got fans cheering.

Later in his career, he had a brief spell with the Padres. While not as high-profile, Eaton’s effort never wavered. He’s the kind of guy you love on your team because he gives it his all—every inning, every game.

7. Jhoulys Chacín: The Quiet Contributor

Chacín isn’t a household name, but he’s been a rock for both teams.

In San Diego, he was the ace of the staff in 2017. Then, in 2020, he put in work for the Diamondbacks. He might not fill highlight reels, but he filled innings—and every team needs that.

Think of him as the dependable friend who never bails on plans. Quiet, but vital.

8. Justin Upton: Power with a Punch

Upton began with a bang in Arizona. Drafted first overall in 2005, he was crushing home runs as a teenager. Fans loved him for his energy and raw power.

He brought that same pop to San Diego in 2015, smashing 26 home runs in just one season. His bat did most of the talking, and fans on both sides still remember the excitement he brought.

9. Craig Breslow: Smarts on the Mound

Not every player needs to be a superstar to make a difference. Breslow, a Yale grad, used his smarts and savvy to succeed as a lefty reliever.

His time with the Padres and Diamondbacks was short but solid. Coaches appreciated his control and poise. Sometimes, being the reliable reliever is just as important as hitting homers.

10. How These Players Influenced Both Teams

Playing for two teams in the same division isn’t always easy, but it often means bringing experience and perspective. These players knew both clubhouses and both cultures and helped bridge gaps.

Whether it was mentoring younger players, stepping up during tough stretches, or just knowing how to handle the pressure, their presence mattered.

11. What Do Fans Think of These Moves?

Ah, the fans. Some are supportive—“Hey, good for him!” Others? Not so much.

Seeing a beloved player in a rival jersey can sting. But most fans understand that it’s part of the game. And when these players return to their old ballparks? They usually get a mix of cheers and good-natured boos.

It’s all part of the theater of baseball.

12. Could There Be More Crossover in the Future?

Definitely. With the way teams trade and sign free agents these days, we might see more familiar faces make the jump.

Names like Tommy Pham, Ha-Seong Kim, or Ketel Marte could someday wear both jerseys. It’s baseball—you never know what’s next.

13. How Trades and Free Agency Shape Careers

Trades and free agency are the lifeblood of roster change. They’re how teams build, rebuild, and reshape.

A player can go to bed a Padre and wake up a Diamondback. That’s just how the MLB works. And for the players, it’s about adapting, growing, and proving themselves—wherever they land.

14. Fun Tidbits About the Rivalry

• First meeting? 1998, right after the Diamondbacks joined the league.
• Most memorable matchup? 2007, both teams chasing playoff spots.
• Weirdest moment? A mid-game dust-up in 2013 had fans and benches fired up.
• Biggest blowout? The Padres once crushed Arizona 17-2.

Rivalries aren’t built in one night—they’re built in moments like these.

15. Final Thoughts and Takeaways

Baseball is full of twists. And sometimes, a twist comes when a player switches sides—from Padres to Diamondbacks, or vice versa.

These players—Upton, Maddux, Kennedy, and others—help tell the story of this unique rivalry. They remind us that baseball is more than wins and losses. It’s about people, paths, and shared history.

So next time these two teams face off, keep an eye on the rosters. You just might spot a familiar name playing for the other side.

FAQs

1. Which MLB players have suited up for both the Padres and Diamondbacks?
Players like Greg Maddux, Justin Upton, Ian Kennedy, and Adam Eaton have worn both uniforms.

2. Why do players switch between these two teams?
Trades, free agency, and team needs all play a part. Players go where the opportunities lead them.

3. Are these players welcomed by fans of both teams?
It varies! Some fans are supportive, while others view it as betrayal—especially during heated matchups.

4. Has any player made a major impact on both teams?
Yes—Ian Kennedy and Justin Upton both had strong seasons and played key roles on each roster.

5. Is Padres vs Diamondbacks considered a big rivalry?
It’s growing! While not as legendary as others, the rivalry has gained heat due to playoff tension and frequent close games.