Padres Spring Training Report – Mar. 3, 2014

FINALLY…the Padres recorded their first W of spring training by taking down the Giants 7-2.  So other than outscoring the Gigantes, what really happened in the game that was of relevance to getting ready for opening day?  Plenty.

• Josh Johnson – The newest member of the rotation and one of the most important off season acquisitions for the team showed why he’s worth taking a chance on after an injury shortened season last year.  He pithed two clean innings, striking out two, and showing good life and command on his FB especially for a first outing.  Buddy said before the game today that Josh will now be on a regular 5 man rotation schedule.  If he continues to feel strong as opening day approaches, and throws the way he is capable of for a good part of the season, he could potentially be one of the best off season signings in the league.
• Tim Stauffer – Two scoreless innings as well.  Not as clean as Johnson’s allowing two singles and a walk, but worked out of it, and was able to make quality pitches out of the stretch.
• Joaquin Benoit – Second time in a row he overpowered the opposition with a firm FB and his feared off the table CH.
• Joe Ross – The youngest player in camp looks good!  He’s throwing his FB down in the zone, and mixing in some secondary pitches for strikes. His mechanics had looked really consistent since day one in camp as well.  I’d not seen him pitch before this year, but in talking to coaches in camp who have, they all are impressed at the progress he’s made in repeating his delivery.
• Tommy Medica – 3 for 3 today with a HR, a 2B, and 3 RBI.  He’s now hitting .727 this spring, 8 for 11!  And he’s not hitting bloopers or seeing eye grounders – he’s hitting line drives regardless of were the ball is pitched.  His HR today was on a FB way in that he kept his hands inside on and put over the fence without even getting all of it.  The ball just jumps off his bat.  He’s off to a great start, and making an early charge to be a right handed power bat off the bench.
• Ryan Jackson – Made yet another above average defensive play, this time at 3B.  Every day he’s either flashed the glove, or the arm regardless of whether he’s at 3B or SS.

There was other news today that wasn’t as encouraging as today’s on field action.  Cameron Maybin, it was revealed today from an MRI, has a ruptured biceps tendon and will miss 2-3 months.  The only good news is that there does not  appear to be any additional damage to the shoulder capsule.  I know it’s easy to second guess a player’s decision to make diving catches during spring training, but it’s that aggressive instinct as a player that often separates guys who make it to the big leagues.

On the positive side of the medical report, Chase Headley continues to get stronger, and was scheduled to hit in the batting cage today from the left side only.  It’s the first swinging he’s done since straining his right calf 10 days ago.

The Padres will take on the Diamondbacks tomorrow at Peoria Sports Complex. First pitch is scheduled for 12:05 PST, and Ted Leitner and I will bring you the action on the Padres.com webcast.

Hope you’ll join us!

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