Padres Spring Training Report – Mar. 21, 2015

For the second day in a row the Padres were unable to add a tally to their Cactus League win column, but honestly the only ones who really care about spring training wins are the rookies who are connivingly told that they get a free shopping spree at Best Buy if they win the Cactus League crown!  The question is did your every day guys look good, and was there any new information gathered with regards to decisions that need to be made?  The answer after today’s 7-5 loss to the D’Backs was yes, and yes.

• Brandon Morrow – He allowed 5 earned runs on 8 hits in 3 2/3 rough innings. Not every ball was hit hard, but most were, and his command just wasn’t consistently there today.  Lots of mistakes up, and too many 2 -strike errors in the zone.  After his previous outing which was solid 4 scoreless against the Cubs, it seemed the 5th spot was all but locked up.  Hopefully he comes back in 5 days with a better outcome, otherwise the hole who’s the 5th starter discussion may heat up again.
• Tommy Medica –  Ok let’s just get it out of the way early today….EN FUEGO!!!! Another HR for Medica, unfortunately for the Friars with no one on, but still another line drive shot off his bat. He followed that with a ground ball single, and is now hitting .560.  How do you send him back to AAA?
• Kemp & Upton – Each with a double and run scored today continue to show they are ready to lead this offense from the middle of the lineup.
• Carlos Quentin – Made his first start at 1B today with no major calamities.  Also had a base hit, so did nothing to dissuade an A.L. suitor from giving AJP a call.
• Casey Kelly – Finally made his 2015 Cactus League debut, and threw a sharp scoreless inning.  Coming back from a strained groin had two fielding plays and handled them both easily and with no signs of the injury bothering him.  Good to see him back on the mound.
• Cory Spangenberg – Two hits today, one to the left side on a perfectly executed hit and run, and the other pulled through the right side. Made a nice diving play to his left today, and will be taking some fly balls before the end of spring. Continues to make a strong bid for a bench spot.
• Wil Nieves – Two hits today as he tries to grab the back up catcher vacancy opened by Federowicz’s knee.

Lots of positives today despite the final scoreboard count. Tomorrow James Shields will go against the Cubs in Mesa.  First pitch is at 1:05, and the broadcast will be on ESPN 1700.  Hope you will join Jesse and me for the action!

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