Looking ahead to 2009: San Diego Padres

October 8, 9:59 PMMLB ExaminerAlex Brown

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The 2008 San Diego Padres expected to be competitive in the National League West as they had been for the last four seasons.  Obvious flaws in the offense, defense, and pitching staff would ultimately prove to cripple the team amidst ownership turmoil.  The Padres have a long climb back to the top, as years of neglecting the farm system became painfully clear in 2008.

Catcher Josh Bard was released, meaning the club will either go with a cheap veteran free agent or a young catcher – either Luke Carlin, Nick Hundley, or Colt Morton.  None of the three have been impressive, though Hundley seems to have the most upside.

The infield could have a few new faces in 2009.  Third baseman Kevin Kouzmanoff and shortstop Khalil Greene are trade candidates, and it is likely that one of them will be dealt.  Adrian Gonzalez will remain entrenched at first base, providing a combination of solid batting average and big time power in a pitcher’s park.  Prospect Matt Antonelli could get a shot to play second base, or he could switch positions on the infield to cover the loss of either Greene or Kouzmanoff.

The Padres could potentially be looking for three new outfielders next season.  Right fielder Brian Giles angered management by refusing a trade to Boston, but still could be resigned for a hometown discount.  Jody Gerut hit for a solid .296 average and could be retained to play left or center.  Converted third base prospect Chase Headley and super utility player Scott Hairston also figure into the mix, but the Padres need a more consistent bat in one of those spots each day.

The team has few options at starting pitcher next year.  Ace Jake Peavy will be ready to go (if not traded himself) after missing time with injuries in 2008.  Chris Young makes for a solid number two starter, but after that it becomes unclear.  Young pitchers Josh Banks, Wade LeBlanc, and Josh Greer will be in the mix, as will Seattle castoff Cha Seung Baek.  More than one of them will have to step up and take a leading role in the rotation for this team to be remotely competitive.

It’s decision time for legendary closer Trevor Hoffman and the Padres.  The all-time saves leader is once again a free agent, and would like to remain in San Diego.  With the need for a youth movement in the organization, they may let him walk.  After Hoffman, Heath Bell and Cla Meredith are next in line, and neither has proved to be consistent at the end of games.  Mike Adams pitched well and has closing experience, and Justin Hampson was good as a lefty option.  For a few years the bullpen was the strength of the Padres, and it looks like it will be again in 2009.

Years of neglecting the minor league system, combined with a commitment to keep payroll low will likely mean more time in the NL West cellar for the Padres.  They need to see what they have in terms of young talent, and spend wisely to acquire players who fit their unique ballpark.  2009 will be a big test for this team to see what they’ve learned from a trying 2008 season.