2009 Padres Are Looking Better, But Still Have Work To Do

In case you missed it, the Padres finally broke their inter league losing streak during this past week, and actually took 2 of 3 while visiting hot and humid Texas over the weekend.

The Pads have been going through players like water, looking for a winning combination here in 2009, and seem to have found a couple players who can help. OF Kyle Blanks is the best prospect the Padres have brought up from the minors in years, and should be here for many seasons to come.

At least until Blanks deserves a raise, and the Pads are forced to trade him. That's been the problem in developing good players here in San Diego, because good players command more than the Major League minimum salary, and that's all the Pads seem inclined to pay them.

The jury is still out on new owner Jeff Morad, who is slowly taking over from incumbent owner John Moores. Hopefully, The Pads will be able to keep their homegrown talent around a little longer.

Adding Tony Gwynn JR has been a pleasant surprise, as TG Senior can now overlook JR's swing and make daily critiques of it. The difference has been amazing, compared to Gwynn JR's time in Milwaukee. Gwynn has flourished since becoming a Padre, and has been welcomed with open arms by the Padre faithful.

P Chad Gaudin has also risen from the free agent scrap heap to deliver solid starting pitching for San Diego. Gaudin tied the Rangers in knots Sunday in Arlington, allowing one hit over eight strong innings while striking out nine. Gaudin may be a flash in the pan, or he may be a genuine find for San Diego- time will tell.

SS Everth Cabrera returned from the disabled list and has provided an immediate spark in the infield at shortstop. The rookie has shown speed and a solid glove, and youthful enthusiasm which the Pads desperately needed.

San Diego opens a home stand at Petco Park tonight vs the Houston Astros, with rookie Josh Geer facing the Astros Roy Oswalt. The Pads are 33-41 and are 14 games behind the division leading L.A. Dodgers.

Stay tuned...