Spring Thoughts on Padres

Before heading off for Anaheim to enjoy the 1st Round of the NCAA Basketball Tournament, I have a few thoughts on the Padres. After yesterday's first spring cuts, the Portland Beavers ballclub is going to be a strong one. Heading to Portland will be LHP Wade LeBlanc, Matt Antonelli, Colt Morton, Will Venable and Edgar Gonzalez. A few of these prospects are about 6 to 12 months away from making noise at the major league level.

Back at the Major League Level....The battle for the 5th spot in the starting rotation and left field is coming down to the last 10 days of Spring training. I expect the Padres to send down Chase Headley, even though I think Headley deserves a spot on the roster. If I were a betting man, which I am not ! I would hedge a bet that either Scott Hairston or Paul McNulty wins the starting left field position. OF Jody Gerut seems the logical choice to be the reserve for the outfield. As for the 5th spot in the starting rotation, it appears that Justin Germano is leading the pack. Though, I would not count out LHP Shawn Estes as the Padres have vested alot of time by allowing Estes to heal from a Tommy John surgery.

Anyhow, after this weekend of NCAA Basketball Tournament, I should have more time to devote to the Padres as I usually do. But for now, it's time for me to head off to Anaheim and enjoy the 1st and 2nd rounds of the 2008 March Madness.