The San Diego Padres saw their 2025 season end on Thursday when they fell to the Chicago Cubs -- in dramatic fashion -- in the deciding game of the National League Wild Card Series. This means the offseason has begun for the still title-less franchise, and the winter ahead may occasion more uncertainty than the Padres have experienced in some time.

That leads to a number of critical questions that the Padres' front office must address in the months ahead, especially if the franchise aims to continue its run of contention. That run has seen the Padres qualify for the postseason in four of the last six seasons, but for a number of reasons that's all at risk moving forward. Let's explore.

1. The rotation is poised for upheaval

This past season, the Padres' rotation wasn't exactly

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