Stating “We felt it was time to make a change,” Josh Byrnes announced that the team had requested unconditional release waivers on infielder Orlando Hudson.
Added Byrnes, “O-Dog has been a two-time All-Star, four-time Gold Glove winner and a contributor to playoff teams, but at this point, we want to give our younger players an opportunity.”
Additionally the club placed shortstop Jason Bartlett (strained right knee) on the 15 day DL, and recalled Everth Cabrera and Alexi Amarista from Tucson.
Hudson, 34, hit .211 (26-for-123) with five triples, one home run, 11 RBI and 11 runs scored in 35 games for the Padres this season. His contract of this season is for $5.5M with a $2M buyout to avoid paying an additional $8M team option for 2013.
The switch hitting Cabrera, 25, has hit .333 (48-for-144) with nine doubles, one triple, 15 RBI, 27 runs scored and is a perfect 15-for-15 in stolen base attempts in 34 games with Tucson this year.
Amarista, 23, was acquired by the Padres in exchange for Ernesto Frieri from the Angels, along with right-handed pitcher Donn Roach. He can play multiple infield positions including shortstop but his primary position has been second base. In 29 games between Salt Lake and Tucson this year, he has hit .278 (35-for-126) with seven doubles, two triples, one home run, 18 RBI and 17 runs scored.
Additionally the Padres made a waiver claim, acquiring LHP Eric Stults, 32, from the White Sox who made two appearances (one start) for the White Sox this year, allowing two runs in 6.2 innings of work (2.70 ERA). A corresponding roster move will be made according to Byrnes, upon Stults’ arrival to San Diego.
Some long awaited, and likely needed moves appear to be starting to happen. Looking forward to seeing what these young players can do with their opportunities.
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