Lights Out on Defense?

Under Defensive Coordinator Wade Phillips, the Chargers defense was an attacking 3-4, using a violent pash rush to dictate what the other team's offense would do. In 2006, Shawne Merriman and Shaun Phillips attacked opposing quarterbacks, combining for 28 sacks & 127 total tackles (61 sacks as a team). This year, under new coordinator Ted Cotrell, the defense is passive and prefers to drop into various zone coverages. The Chargers have picked have already picked off 17 passes this season ( 14 INT in 2006) but only have 19 sacks with only 6 games left.

Did the losses of veteran middle linebackers Donnie Edwards & Randall Godfrey hurt the Chargers more than A.J. Smith will let on? In 2006, the duo only compiled a combined 6.5 sacks & 3 INTs. However, Edwards led the team with 142 total tackles (Godfrey 58 total tackles). So far this season, their replacements Stephen Cooper & Matt Wilhelm have accounted for 138 total tackles, 1 sack & 2 INTs. More distressing, Merriman & Phillips have combined for only 11 sacks (87 total tackles) in 2007.

The most important loss, is Wade Phillips (who is currently in Dallas). He is coaching the 10-1 Cowboys, whose aggressive 3-4 defense has become one of the best in the NFL. Meanwhile, Cotrell is in San Diego, coaching the underachieving defense for a 5-5 team desperately clinging to a share of first place in the AFC West.

Mike Cameron Suspended

San Diego Padres centerfielder Mike Cameron was suspended 25 games after testing positive for a banned stimulant. It was the second time he has tested positive for a banned stimulant. Cameron, who was expected to file for free agency next month, stressed that the banned substance was not a steroid. He believes the banned stimulant came from a tainted nutritional supplement that he had already finished out. This inability for Cameron to identify (or produce for testing) any tainted supplements, and the fact that this was his second positive, make it difficult to believe that this was accidental.

It is currently MLB's policy to withhold which specific substances a player has tested positive for. In Cameron's case, it is clear that the 25 game suspension is attributed to a substance that is not a steroid. As steroids carry a minimum 50 game suspension, it is likely Cameron was using a banned stimulant like amphetamine or ephedra.

According to former players like the late Ken Caminiti, and the currently suspended Jason Grimsley, amphetamine use was widespread prior to its ban. Green tablets containing the amphetamine Dexedrine (better known as greenies) were used to help players amp themselves up, providing engergy and mental clarity. However, chemical similarities to methamphetamines (crystal, speed) also made the amphetamines highly addictive.

As far as Cameron's role with the Padres, it was widely believed that he would sign with his hometown Atlanta Braves. In turn, Andruw Jones, who struggled horribly last year with the Braves, seemed to be on his way to San Diego. The suspension to start at the beginning of next season may scare other teams away, opening for a discounted contract to return to San Diego. If Cameron leaves, the talk is that Jones (or maybe Aaron Rowand or Torii Hunter) may find a new home at Petco Park.

Fires Force Everyone to Flee, Even Icons and Teams

Sports icons Tony Gwynn, Trevor Hoffman and LaDainian Tomlinson were among the San Diegans forced from their homes by the wildfires. According to the San Diego Union-Tribune, Gwynn's and Tomlinson's homes in Poway and Hoffman's home in Rancho Santa Fe were directly in the path of the Witch Creek fire that had started in East San Diego County near Ramona.

On Chargers.com, Prow Bowl center Nick Hardwick estimated that about 75 percent of the team (including LT and quarterback Philip Rivers) were affected by the wildfires and evacuations. Though many of the players and their families were forced to evacuate. A few of those who were unaffected took the time to help.  A few Chargers and some staff members, including Safety Clinton Hart, were among the volunteers at Qualcomm. Also assisting at the evacuation site were Padres players and staff, including first baseman Adrian Gonzales and third baseman Kevin Kouzmanoff.

Reported on Padres.com, current Padres Brett Tomko (Poway) and manager Bud Black(Rancho Santa Fe) were forced out by the Witch Creek evacuation. As printed in the U-T, former Padres Phil Nevin (Poway) and Brian Lawrence and former coaches Bruce Bochy (Poway) and Dave Stewart (Poway) were also evacuated. It was also reported that former Major-Leaguer David Justice's home was among those that burned in Poway. In 2003, former Padre and Cy Young award winner Randy Jones lost his North County home.

Coming off a bye week, the wildfires have created disruption in the Chargers' season. It is unknown how the players will be affected by wildfires and the subsequent evacuations. The entire team was evacuated to Tempe (AZ), and some players opted to bring their families along with them. According to former Charger Billy Ray Smith (who was also evacuated from his home) who appeared on ESPN news, Defensive Lineman Igor Olshansky's wife is currently pregnant. After being evacuated, Olshansky's wife flew to San Francisco in order to get away from all of the smoke and ash polluting the local air. It seems that like most people, the players might have their focus directed on their families and on the events in San Diego.

As many of the players remain unaware of what has happened to their homes and neighborhoods. The team will attempt to resume practices in Arizona, preparing for its upcoming game against the Houston Texans. It is unknown where this "home" game will be played since Qualcomm Stadium is currently an evacuation center and host to many of those displaced by the fires. During the 2003 wildfires, the Chargers played their Monday Night Football "home" game against the Dolphins in Tempe, Arizona. Tempe, Los Angeles, Dallas and Houston are among the possible sites for this Sunday's game if Qualcomm Stadium remains unavailable.

Speechless

San Diego is my hometown. I was born at Balboa Naval Hospital and have been a lifelong San Diegan. As soon as I understood what sports were, I've rooted for the Padres and the Chargers. I grew up idolizing Tony Gwynn, Dan Fouts and Kellen Winslow. I have great memories of Air Coryell and of Caminiti's Snickers fueled heroics. Ask anyone who knows me, I always have something to say about sports, especially sports in San Diego. That is... until the last month has left me all but speechless.

This was supposed to be a great year to be a San Diego fan. there was just too much to be excited about. The Chargers had just completed a 14-2 season, won the AFC West and had most their talent returning for 2007. The Padres had just come off back to back National League West titles and looked to have the best pitching staff in the majors. The way things have turned in the past month have crushed me mentally and physically. The 1-3 start for the Chargers and the Padres getting left out of the post-season have created a debilitating combination of headaches, nausea and vertigo. My illness has forced me to block access to all of the ESPN and FOX Sports channels. For the first time in my life, I hated sports.

The Padres had a great season and looked to be a lock for the 2007 playoffs. Until the Colorado Rockies decided to win 13 out of their last 14 games. That 13 inning heartbreaker in Denver was the indigestible anomaly that redefined the Padres' season. Every Padre fan had to like the team's chances with Jake Peavy and Trevor Hoffman both pitching in that one game playoff. It almost felt like the post-season was all but a formality. Unfortunately, neither Peavy nor Hoffman performed in game 163 the way that had carried the team in the first 162.

The Padres went 89-74 and lost an exciting one game playoff. Great season, no playoffs. At least we have Ladainian, right? Yet, to further drive me towards a prolonged addiction to anti-depressants, the Chargers had stumbled out to a horrible 1-3 start. In each of the first four weeks the execution was horrible. Each game was sloppy and painful to watch. My four-month-old son cried anytime the Chargers game was on the TV.

It took a 41-3 drubbing of the Denver Broncos for me and my infant son to stop crying. The defense and special teams took the ball away, as they had done most of last year. After four weeks of insanity, someone finally decided to give the ball to LT. Seemed like a good idea last year, it could work again this year. It isn't much, the team is still 2-3. At least the convincing win keeps me from committing some kind of regrettable act... for at least another week.

Goodbye Boomer!

The good news is that Padres All-Star pitcher, Chris Young is back from a strained left-oblique muscle. The bad news is that veteran left-hander David "Boomer" Wells was designated for assignment in order to make room on the roster for the 6'10" starter.

The San Diego native and former Point Loma High School graduate (1982) had struggled in his last four starts with the Padres. Wells went 0-3, allowing 26 earned runs over 16.2 innings (14.44 ERA, 7 home runs allowed). In his 22 starts this season, Wells went 5-8 with a 5.54 ERA (73 ER/118.2 IP), 33 walks and 63 strikeouts.

In his latest start against St. Louis, Well had cruised through the first four innings until he allowed seven straight hits (en route to an MLB record tying, ten straight hits for the Cardinals). Unable to record an out that inning, Wells allowed seven runs in what looks to have been his last as a Padre.

Earlier this year, Wells had been diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes during Spring Training. It is unknown if fatigue, decreased energy or changes in lfestyle may have contributed to Boomer's problems in the last two months.

Over parts of 21 Major League seasons, Wells has compiled a 235-156 record and a 4.12 ERA (1556 ER/3400.1 IP) with 2,182 strikeouts (versus only 402 walks) in 653 games (482 starts) with eight Major League teams (the Toronto Blue Jays, Detroit Tigers, Cincinnati Reds, Baltimore Orioles, New York Yankees, Chicago White Sox, Boston Red Sox and his hometown Padres).

It is unknown if Wells will try to resume his career with another team or if he will retire after his release. It seems as if every division features some tight competition. Well's veteran savvy could be enticing to a number of teams pushing toward a pennant or a wild-card.

Linebrink Traded to Milwaukee

Setup man Scott Linebrink was traded to the Milwaukee Brewers for three minor league pitchers, RHP Will Inman, LHP Joe Thatcher and LHP Steve Garrison. Linebrink was 3-3 with a 3.80 ERA for the Padres this season. The right hander from Texas had struggled lately, allowing two three run homers in the last week. Linebrinks problems with location may have cost the Padres a few games and some much needed momentum.

The Padres acquired two 20 year-olds; right-handed starter, Will Inman was a third-round pick in the 2005 amateur draft; and left-handed starter, Steve Garrison, a 10th-round pick in 2005. 25-year-old left-handed reliever Joe Thatcher, was the only player expected to contribute immediately.

Inman seems to have the most potential of the three. Considered a top prospect, Inman went 10-2 with 1.71 ERA in 2006 (playing at WVA - SAL). He also struck out 134 in 110.2 IP, while only allowing 24 walks. This season Inman is 5-8 with a 2.97 ERA in 21 games (between Brevard County - Class A Advanced Florida State League & HUN - SOU). In 118.2 IP he has compiled 140 strikeouts with 39 walks. He has been assigned to Double A San Antonio in the Southern League.

Garrison was 8-4 with a 3.44 ERA (74 Ks & 28 BBs) in 104.2 IP this season for Brevard County in the Class A Advanced Florida State League. Last year the southpaw was 7-6 with a 3.45 ERA in 88.2 innings, striking out 77 while walking 22.

Left handed reliever, Joe Thatcher, will be the first player in the trade to play for the Padres. The quirky lefty with a three-quarter delivery will report to the Majors immediately, meeting the team in Houston. Thatcher valued by the Padres because he rarely gives up home runs (allowed none this year) will become an important part of the bullpen.

Padres 2007 Draft - 34 Picks Signed

The San Diego Padres have agreed to terms with 34 of their 42 picks from the 2007 draft. The Padres front office had pledged to spend more money (approximately $10 million) in order to further develop the club's improving farm system.

Nicholas G. Schmidt (LHP) S/L 6'05" 220lbs (1985-10-10) 1st RND #23 - Signed 06/28/07
Schmidt became the Razorbacks staff ace as a freshman, a pitcher (not just a thrower) who can keep hitters off balance. The Arkansas southpaw has a fastball that sits in the low 90s, outstanding change-up and good breaking stuff. Schmidt was named as a second-team 2007 All-American by Louisville Slugger, Baseball America, the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association & the American Baseball Coaches Association after going 11-3 with a 2.69 ERA in 18 starts for the Razorbacks. Schmidt is a bit more polished than most collegiate pitchers, as he had extensive international experience pitching with Team USA.

Kellen R. Kulbacki (LF) L/L 5'11" 185lbs (1985-11-21) Compensatory A #40 - Signed 06/23/07
Kulbacki has been described as an above-average hitter (plus average with raw power). Named 2006 Co-Player of the Year by Collegiate Baseball News, the college junior possesses a stocky body with a decent arm and below average speed. An average fielder who is better suited for the corners. The first-team All-American was ranked second in the nation in batting .464, led the nation in home runs (24), 75 RBIs, picked up 17 doubles, 13 stolen bases and had the highest slugging percentage in the United States (.943).

Andrew L. Cumberland (SS) L/R 5'10" 175lbs (1989-01-13) Compensatory A #46 - Signed 07/07/2007
Good contact hitter who was drafted for his exceptional speed. The shortstop from Pace High School in Milton, Florida has exceptional range and his speed translates very well on the basepaths. However, scouts are concerned with his arm strength and accuracy. Could possibly be moved to second base or the outfield.

Mitchell D. Canham (C) L/R 6'02" 215lbs (1984-09-25) Compensatory A #57 - Signed 06/26/07
An athletic catcher who possesses a good left handed bat; can hit for average with above average power. The Oregon State University senior has only been a catcher for about three years, but is considered one of the leaders for a team on its way to Omaha. Canham could develop into good defensive catcher or could be moved to a corner INF/OF spot.

Cory R. Luebke (LHP) R/L 6'04" 200lbs (1985-03-04) Compensatory A #63 - Signed 06/23/07
The Ohio State lefty has a fastball that sits in the low 90's and solid off-speed pitches (plus slider & change). Luebke led the Big Ten in ERA (1.95) this season. Though scouts question whether or not he has a plus fastball, both his fastball & slider have been very effective. According to Cape Cod League scouting, Luebke has good, repeatable mechanics; more coaching and minor changes to his delivery could lead to more velocity.

Daniel A. Payne (CF) L/L 5'10" 185lbs (1985-09-08) Compensatory A #64 - Signed 06/25/07
Deemed a "real baseball player" with marginal physical tools (average speed, average range, good reads, very good arm). The junior from Georgia Tech is a hard-nosed gamer with great baseball instincts who plays well above his ability. Payne is an above average hiiter, with below average power.

Eric S. Sogard (2B) L/R 5'10" 180 1986-05-22 2nd RND #81 - Signed 06/26/07
The 5-10, 180-pound junior second baseman was named the 2007 Pacific-10 Conference Defensive Player of the Year. Sogard, drafted out of Arizona State University, batted .400 (100-for-250) with 12 doubles, four triples, 11 home runs, 62 RBI and 74 runs scored in 64 games for the Pac-10 Conference Champion Sun Devils this season. The Phoenix, Arizona native also earned All Pac-10 honors for the second straight season.

Bradley W. Chalk (CF) L/L 6'01" 1986-01-20 2nd RND #87 - Signed 06/23/07
As a top of the lineup hitter, Chalk batted .366 (59-for-161) with 10 doubles, two triples, 18 RBI, 26 runs scored and nine stolen bases in 45 games for the 2007 Clemson Tigers. Named second team All-ACC in 2007, Chalk is also a two-time member of the ACC Academic Honor Roll. A career.360 hitter at Clemson, he led the Tigers this season in batting average and on-base percentage (.483).

Thomas P. Toledo (RHP) R/R 6'03" 175 1988-12-13 3rd RND #117

Corey S. Kluber (RHP) R/R 6'04" 215 1986-04-10 4th RND #134 - Signed 07/13/07
The big 6'4" right-handed Texan throws in the low 90's (89-93). He shows excellent command of his fastball and has three solid off-speed pitches; change-up, curve and cutter. The 21 year-old junior was 12-2 with a 2.05 ERA (26 ER/114.0 IP) in 17 starts for Stetson University (DeLand, Florida). Kluber, held opponents to a .217 batting average with 117 strikeouts and only 36 walks (114 innings).

Lance F. Zawadzki (SS) S/R 5'11" 185 1985-05-26 4th RND #147 – Signed 06/12/07
Zawadzki is a switch hitting shortstop with a good arm, who can hit for avereage and power. While at San Diego State, Zawadzki hit .335 with ten home runs and 53 RBIs as a sophomore (2005) while playing for coach Tony Gwynn (He also hit the 'first' home run at Petco Park while playing in the Tony Gwynn Classic). Injuries limited the Aztec in 2006 as he struggled with a .243 avg and only 3 home runs. He then transferred to Lee University (Cleveland, Tennessee) and the senior led the Flames to the 2007 NAIA World Series; batting .461 (106-for-230) with nine home runs and 71 RBI over 63 games.

Jeremy S. Hefner (RHP) R/R 6'04" 1986-03-11 5th RND #177 - Signed 06/25/07
Emmanuel Quiles (C) R/R 5'11" 186 1989-10-26 6th RND #207 - Signed 06/25/07
Justin D. Baum (3B) R/R 6'01" 1985-10-06 7th RND #237 - Signed 06/25/07

Matt C. Teague (LHP) R/L 6'03" 210 1984-12-14 8th RND #267 - Signed 06/12/07
Teague was 7-2 with a 3.14 ERA (30 ER/86.0 IP), 74 strikeouts and 16 walks in 14 starts as a senior (2007) for Carson-Newman College in Jefferson City, Tenn. Has a fastball that sits in the low 90s (89-91). A lefty with good size, also throws a good slider and change and likes to work down in the zone.

Wynn I. Pelzer (RHP) R/R 6'01" 1986-06-23 9th RND #297
Christian A. Colon (SS) R/R 5'11" 1989-05-14 10th RND #327

Shane P. Buschini (RF) L/L 6'04" 1985-04-24 11th RND #357 - Signed 06/12/07
Buschini, a Univeristy of San Diego senior, was named the West Coast Conference Player of the Year. The left handed hitting right fielder led the Toreros to the 2007 WCC Championship, a No. 4 national ranking and a No. 8 national seed in the NCAA Regionals. To earn player of the year honors (WCC), Buschini hit .348, with 13 home runs and 58 RBI. He also had a .442 on base percentage as well as a .626 slugging percentage.

Luis M. Martinez (C) R/R 6'00" 210 1985-04-03 12th RND #387 - Signed 06/12/07
Allen J. Harrington (LHP) L/L 5'11" 185 1986-07-03 13th RND #417 - Signed 06/12/07
William K. Conlon (CF) R/R 6'03" 210 1983-03-14 14th RND #447 -Signed 06/12/07
Ryan Hill (LF) L/L 6'00" 185 1985-04-05 15th RND #477 - Signed 06/12/07
Robert L. Perry (OF) L/L 5'09" 190 1984-10-03 16th RND #507 - Signed 06/12/07
Brandon P. Gomes (RHP) R/R 5'11" 175 1984-07-15 17th RND #537 - Signed 06/12/07
Robert Blauer (1B) L/L 5'11" 210 1985-09-08 18th RND #567 - Signed 06/12/07
Nicholas A. McDaniel (RHP) R/R 6'01" 205 1984-11-09 19th RND #597 - Signed 06/12/07

Robert S Woodard (RHP) R/R 6'01" 205 1985-01-10 20th RND #627 - Signed 06/26/07
Woodard, drafted out of the University of North Carolina, went 11-2 with a 3.30 ERA (42 ER/114.2 IP) in 19 games (18 starts) for the Tarheels in 2007. Woodward lead the Tar Heels to their second straight College World Series finals appearance. He compiled 84 strikeouts compared to 28 walks. A 6-1, 205-pound senior right-hander, Woodard became the winningest pitcher in UNC history this season and finished his career with a 34-5 record. The Charlotte, North Carolina native also garnered second-team All-Atlantic Coast Conference honors in 2007.

Tyler J. Davis (RHP) R/R 6'03" 195 1985-05-15 21st RND #657 - Signed 06/12/07

Keoni M. Ruth (2B) R/R 5'11" 200 1985-03-21 22nd RND #687 - Signed06/12/07
Hawaii Prep Player of the Year in 2003, batting .556 as a senior at Kamehameha Schools. All-West Coast Conference player as a freshman for Univeristy of San Diego, batting .342 with 47 runs, 40 RBIs, 14 SBs. Ruth hit .338 as a sophomore with 93 RBIs for the USD Torreros. After two years in San Diego, Ruth transferred to Concordia University (Irvine, California).

Angel Mercado (RF) R/R 6'00" 205 1985-08-19 23rd RND #717 - Signed 06/25/07
Bryan Oland (RHP) R/R 6'03" 220 1985-06-05 24th RND #747 - Signed 06/12/07
Hunter Ovens (RF) R/R 6'02" 215 1988-11-03 25th RND #777
Andrew B. Parrino (2B) S/R 6'00" 185 1985-10-31 26th RND #807 - Signed 06/12/07
Zachary T. Brown (1B) L/L 6'00" 200 1985-03-13 27th RND #837 - Signed 06/12/07
Shawn Olsen (RHP) R/R 6'02" 200 1984-06-05 28th RND #867 - Signed 06/12/07
Brian Joynt (3B) R/R 6'03" 220 1985-03-14 29th RND #897 - Signed 06/12/07
Dylan Axelrod (RHP) R/R 6'00" 195 1985-07-30 30th RND #927 - Signed 06/25/07
Colt Hynes (LHP) L/L 6'00" 200 1985-06-28 31st RND #956 - Signed 06/12/07
Anthony Renteria (CF) L/R 6'00" 180 1989-08-30 32nd RND #985
Andrew Schugel (3B) R/R 6'00" 180 1989-06-27 33rd RND #1014
Joseph Pagan (1B) L/R 6'00" 210 1989-08-30 34th RND #1043
Ross I. Wilson (SS) R/R 5'11" 185 1988-11-09 35th RND #1072

Chargers Supplement Secondary

In the fourth round of 2007 NFL Supplemental Draft, the San Diego Chargers selected cornerback Paul Oliver, out of Georgia. The talented junior had planned to return to the University of Georgia for his senior season, but applied for the supplemental draft when he was declared academically ineligible.

Had he declared for the regular 2007 draft, projections had Oliver going in the second or third rounds. However, a lackluster Pro Day may have scared teams away, allowing the Chargers to select him in the fourth. Oliver's forty time was somewhat slow for a cornerback. He was clocked in the 4.5-4.58 range (according to Scout.com) and his vertical was somewhat average at 33.5 inches. Also, scouts measured his 'official' height at 5'10 & 5/8"s, much shorter than the 6'0" listed. Though his pro workouts were somewhat disappointing, most scouts felt that it was the six month layoff that hurt his performance. Most scouts remained impressed with Oliver's instincts and cover abilities, describing the former Bulldog as a player who plays better (and faster) than he works out.

It had been reported that in the past, Oliver's 40-times had been clocked in the low 4.4s (a grade that could have made him a first day choice). Oliver also felt that the poor showing was due to limited time and a lack of proper preparation. He also stated that it was somewhat difficult to be a 'one-man show' - alluding to the fact that he was the only player working out for more than two dozen NFL scouts.

Last season, Oliver was the fifth leading tackler for the Bulldogs, with 57. He also had 3 interceptions and 12 passed defensed. However, Oliver's draft stock jumped toward the end of last season. He made his name last fall with shutdown performances against Georgia Tech’s Calvin Johnson (two catches for 13 yards), the No. 2 overall pick in the 2007 draft; and South Carolina’s Sydney Rice (three catches for 31 yards), the Vikings pick at No. 44 overall.

Oliver's fourth round selection in the 2007 Supplemental Draft will cost the Chargers their corresponding 2008 (fourth round) selection. Despite the poor numbers, the feeling is that Chargers got excellent value for that fourth round pick. Most of the scouts agreed that if Oliver had returned to Georgia and had a solid senior season, he would have been rated among the top cornerbacks in the 2008 draft (first or second round).

Crittenton Torches Blazers For 26 Points

Javaris Crittenton scored 26 points (10-17 FG) against a Greg Oden-less Portland Trailblazers squad as the Lakers won 81-73. Cody Karl started alongside Crittenton in the backcourt and scored 12 points (4-5 FG, 2-3 3PT). Jordan Farmar played well again, scoring 17 points off the bench.

The Lakers improved their Las Vegas Summer League record to 2-1. Their next summer league game is against the Denver Nuggets at 8:30PM EDT on Friday the 13th.

Lakers Lose to Sixers in OT

The Los Angeles Lakers Las Vegas Summer League team lost to the Philidelphia 76ers summer leaguers 98-95 in OT (10JULY2007 @ 8:00pm EDT). Guard Cody Karl, a free-agent signing out of Boise State (Denver Nuggets Head Coach, George Karl's son) led the Lakers with 23 points (3-5 3PT). Jordan Farmar bounced back from a 6 turnover game to add 18 points (2-2 3PT) and 11 assists. Javaris Crittenton, who led the Lakers with 18 points in their last game, was 0-5 from the field in just over 14 minutes.

Peavy Named NL Starter

San Diego Padres' ace Jake Peavy has been selected as the National League starting pitcher for Major League Baseball's 78th All-Star Game. St. Louis Cardinals Manager Tony LaRussa chose Peavy over the 10-1 Los Angeles Dodger Brad Penny (2.39 ERA & 82 strikeouts) and the National League ERA leader & Padre teamate Chris Young (8-3, 2.00 ERA & 99 strikeouts).

Peavy is currently 9-3 with a 2.19 ERA. He leads the National League with 125 strikeouts and is second in ERA. Peavy and Young represent a Padres pitching staff that leads the Major Leagues in team ERA (3.09) and shutouts (12). The 26 year-old right hander also leads the National League in strikeouts per nine innings (9.45) and WHIP (1.06) and leads the Majors in opponents' slugging percentage (.271). The 6'1" 180 pounder from Mobile, Alabama has only allowed three home runs this season, and has walked just 34 batters. Peavy is 66-48 in his six years as a Major Leaguer. He owns a 3.35 career ERA, with 975 strikeouts in 983 innings pitched (in 156 career games).

Peavy becomes only the third San Diego Padres pitcher to start an All-Star Game. He is the first Padre to earn the honor in 23 years, becoming the first since LaMarr Hoyt represented the brown, orange and gold in 1985. Former Padres lefty Randy Jones was the first to represent San Diego as an All-Star starting pitcher. Jones started for the National League in the 1976 All-Star Game, he was 22-14 that year with a 2.74 ERA with 25 complete games, en route to winning the Cy Young Award.

Crittenton Hits Game Winner

Maybe a 66-64 win in the NBA's Las Vegas Summer League can give Los Angeles Lakers' fans a little taste of the future. Attacking the middle of the Milwaukee Bucks defense, second-year guard Jordan Farmar used dribble penetration to find Javaris Crittenton (the Lakers' 2007 first-round pick) for the wide-open game winner. Crittenton hit the shot with only 1.7 seconds left in the game.

Crittenton, a freshman selected out of Georgia Tech, lead all players with 18 points (8-13). Lakers' forward Rodney White chipped in 12 points and newly signed free-agent guard Cody Karl (son of Denver Nuggets coach George Karl) scored 10 points. Former North Carolina Tarheel, David Noel, led the Bucks' summer leaguers with 16 points (also adding 6 rebounds and 2 steals).

Crittenton showed the quickness and leaping ability that made the Lakers feel he was a steal with the 19th overall pick. More importantly, JC showed that he was quite comfortable playing within the complex traingle offense, a system he became familiar with in high school.

Chris Young Sneaks In

It isn't often that a 6'10, 260 pound pitcher gets overlooked. Fortunately, more than 4.5 million fans disagreed with St. Louis Manager Tony LaRussa's minor mistake, as their "last chance" votes made San Diego Padres right hander Chris Young a first time All-Star. Young will join teammates Jake Peavy and Trevor Hoffman as the Padres representatives in San Francisco for the 78th Major League All-Star Game.

Despite leading all National League starters with a 2.00 ERA and helping keep San Diego atop the NL West, LaRussa decided to keep Young off the intial NL All-Star roster. Young also sported the lowest opponent's batting average in the NL (.197 BAA) and he is also in the NL's top 10 in strikeouts (currently 6th with 99 Ks in 103.2 IP).

According to Major League Baseball, Young received more than 4.5 million of the approximately 23 million votes submitted. Thanks to some stellar numbers and an all-out push by his teammates, the Padres organization and the entire city of San Diego, C.Y. earned enough support to be voted onto the NL roster.

Those great first half stats and tons of local support allowed Young to beat out four other high profile players. Chris was chosen over big names like reigning NL Cy Young winner Brandon Webb of the Arizona Diamondbacks, Chicago Cubs pitcher Carlos Zambrano, Houston Astros ace Roy Oswalt and Pittsburgh Pirates up-and-comer Tom Gorzelanny (who benefits nationally by pitching on the East Coast). Zambrano was so shocked that C.Y. was left off the NL roster, that even he lobbied for fans to vote Young in. Zambrano must have forgotten about the punches Young threw at Chicago teammate Derek Lee a few weeks back. Seems like the fans didn't. If anything, maybe the high profile fight in Chicago made the 6'10" Chris Young a little less anonymous nationally; possibly helping C.Y. sneak into the All-Star Game through the back door.

LHP LeBlanc Promoted

According to the San Diego Union-Tribune, Padres minor leaguer, left-handed pitcher Wade LeBlanc was promoted from Class-A Lake Elsinore to Class AA San Antonio. In 16 starts with the Storm, Leblanc was 6-5 with a 2.64 ERA. The 6'3", 190 pound lefty continues to show excellent command, compiling 90 strikeouts with only 17 walks in 92 innings with the Storm.

LeBlanc was the 61st overall selection in 2006, the second of San Diego's two second round draft picks that year (fourth overall). Selected by the Padres out of the University of Alabama, he was 11-1 with a 2.92 ERA (42 ER/129.1 IP) in 18 starts for the Crimson Tide in 2006. The 6-3, 190-pounder set school single-season records with 129.1 innings pitched and 128 strikeouts. He left Alabama as the school's all-time strikeout leader, compiling 334 Ks in three years.

YAHTZEE! Towers Acquires Milton Bradley

IN THE GAME OF LIFE and in baseball, nothing is a certainty. GUESS WHO? is coming to San Diego? Padres General Manager Kevin Towers has agreed to a trade with the Oakland Athletics, acquiring the enigmatic outfielder Milton Bradley and $1,360,929 in exchange for hard throwing right handed reliever Andrew Brown.

The switch-hitting Bradley has a career .271 average in just over eight seasons and can CONNECT with FOUR different teams (Montreal, Cleveland, Los Angeles & Oakland). Bradley's best season came in 2004 when he hit .267 with 19 home runs and 67 RBIs for the Los Angeles Dodgers. Last season, Bradley hit .276 with 14 home runs and 52 RBIs in 96 games for the A's. Unfortuantely Bradley is more known for his BATTLESHIP sized antics and clubhouse problems. The talented player had well publicized problems with Eric Wedge in Cleveland and with Jeff Kent in Los Angeles. He was also suspended for unusual on-field incidents; i.e. throwing equipment onto the field after a perceived bad call and throwing a plastic beer bottle (which was thrown at him) back into the stands. He has also been known to throw chairs, water bottles and personal insults. (Note: Bradley is an alum of Long Beach Polytechnic High School, the same high school that produced San Diego Padres Hall of Famer, Tony Gwynn.)

Brown, 26, was 2-3 with a 2.78 ERA (11 ER/35.2 IP) in 32 relief appearances for Triple-A Portland this season. Acquired by San Diego from the Cleveland Indians along with third baseman Kevin Kouzmanoff in exchange for Josh Barfield, Brown is a hard thrower who routinely hits the high 90's with his fastball. However, Brown did not refine his control the way had Towers hoped, making the fireballer somewhat expendable. Brown made his Major League debut with the Indians last September, appearing in nine games (allowing six hits and four runs over 10.0 innings, with a 3.60 ERA). Unlike Bradley, he is not known for creating problems within the clubhouse or with other players on his team. Ironically, this is the second time Brown has been traded for Bradley, as he was involved in the exchange between Cleveland & Los Angeles.

Its a STRATEGO move by Towers, as Bradley offers the Padres a low risk-high reward chance at boosting the struggling offense, or at least shoring up the bench. Bradley is an above average outfielder at all three spots. He also offers some pop and some much needed speed. If Bradley, who has often been more fun than A BARREL OF MONKEYS, doesn't fit into the Padres OPERATION, KT didn't really give up much to get the talented, yet TROUBLEd outfielder.

Balancing the outfield has been a bit of a TWISTER for rookie manager Bud Black, as he has had to juggle Jose Cruz, Jr., Termel Sledge, Hiram Bocachica, Russel Branyan and the returning Brian Giles in the corner outfield spots. For now it seems Giles, and his hefty ability to draw walks, will start everday in right field, and Bradley (if heathy) will start in left.

Like Barrett, Bradley will become a free-agent at the end of the year. It is currently unknown if the Padres will obtain any compensatory draft picks (as they will with Barrett) if Bradley is not resigned.

Los Angeles Lakers - 2007 Draft

With the 19th overall pick, the Los Angeles Lakers selected Javaris Crittenton, a freshman point guard from Georgia Tech (14.4 PPG, 1.1 3PT, 5.8 AST, 3.7 REB). Tagged as a high-risk/high-reward player, Crittenton has a ton of potential, offering a rare combination of size (6'5" 200 lbs) and athleticism at the guard position. He handles the ball extremely well and possesses NBA 3-point range on his shot. He also displayed excellent court vision, but needs to improve his decision making skills and control his flashy-ness. His size and strength will help create matchup problems for other teams, but many scouts debate whether or not he is a natural point guard (or can develop into one).

The Lakers then chose 22 year-old Sun Yue, with the tenth pick in the second round (40th overall). Yue is a 6'9" 205 pound combo guard/forward from China. Yue impressed the scouts at the NBA pre-draft camp in Orlando. Florida. He arrived at the camp tabbed slotted at forward. After a day of workouts and drills, scouts reclassified him as a guard and point guard. His size, passing skills, superior court vision and ability to handle the ball have drawn comparisons to Boris Diaw and Magic Johnson. Yue also showed good athleticism and an impressive shooting stroke. Last year, Yue played in the American Basketball Association with Beijin-Aoshen team, a team originally based in mainland China highlighting a roster full of Chinese players. He impressed NBA scouts scoring 13.5 PPG with 7 AST and 6 REB. He shot for a high percentage .655 FG%, and showed an efficient assist to turnover ratio of nearly three to one.

With their third pick in the draft, the Los Angeles Lakers selected 22 year old Marc Gasol (Pau Gasol's brother) from Spain. Marc Gasol is 7'1" and weighs 265 pounds (DOB: 1/29/85). Gasol knows how to use his size and will not shy away from contact. Gasol is a very aggressive player, always initiating contact and taking the ball right to the rim. Gasol is also strong in terms of establishing position in the post, maintaining position as a post defnder and rebounding the ball. He has surprisingly good ballhandling and passing skills for a frontcourt player. Like most European players, Gasol’s shooting range extends out to the 3-point line. Like his brother Pau, Marc has a high basketball IQ, he will not force plays, will make good decisions and will play solid defense while staying out of foul trouble. His weight and conditioning were the main concerns that kept him from becoming a first round draft choice. Also, scouts noted that he is too right-hand dominant, making his post moves somewhat predictable and easy to defend. He was impressive as a high schooler in Tennessee, but returned to Europe (playing professionally) instead of staying in the states. If he works hard to improve his conditioning and athleticism, he could become one of the steals of the 2007 draft.

Los Angeles Clippers - 2007 Draft

With the 14th pick overall the Los Angeles Clippers selected foward Al Thornton from Florida State University. A strong senior season boosted Thornton's stock (19.7 PPG, 5.2 REB, 1.5 STL, 1.1 BLK), becoming the Clippers lottery selection. The 6'8" swingman is an excellent athlete with good leaping ability and quickness. Thornton will create missmatches with his combination of speed and size. He has a high release with his jump shot (difficult to block) and with his ability to get to the rim, Thornton can score almost automatically from within 17 feet. However the 23 year-old Senior picked up the game of basketball late in life and looks stiff and mechanical with most of his fundametals (handling & passing the ball). If Clippers coaches can help polish the rough spots in his game, his athletic ability could allow him to be dominant.

In the second round (45th pick overall), the Clippers selected a 6'2" point guard out of Marist, Jared Jordan (no relation to Michael). In his senior season for the Red Foxes, Jordan averaged 17.2 points (1.7 3PT), 8.9 assists and 5.9 rebounds. Described as a smart player with a high basketball IQ, Jordan seems to have a knack for always being around the ball and seeing the entire court. Scouts like Jordan's jump shot and he possesses excellent range, although he is a very streaky shooter. Savvy and polished, Jordan will need to improve his athleticism to keep up with the speed of the NBA.

Padres Trade for Slugging Catcher

On June 20th San Diego Padres GM Kevin Towers pulled another switch with the Cubs, sending backup catcher Rob Bowen and High-A outfielder Kyler Burke to Chicago, in exchange for 'slugging' catcher Michael Barrett and $1.5 million in cash.

Michael Barrett, perennially a fringe NL All-Star, is a 6'3" 210 pound, right hand hitting catcher born in Atlanta, Georgia. Barrett is a career .267 hitter with 95 home runs in almost 10 years of Major League service (Montreal, Oakland & Chicago Cubs). He was hitting .256 with nine home runs and 29 RBIs (also two dugout fights & six stitches) in 57 games with the Cubs prior to the trade.

Rob Bowen, a 26 year-old switch-hitting catcher, was acquired by the Padres from the Minnesota Twins in 2006. Considered a much better defensive catcher than Barrett, he was hitting .268 with two home runs and 11 RBIs in 30 games this season with San Diego. Ironically, in his last game as a Padre, Bowen hit a home run against the Cubs last Sunday. In his two seasons as a Padre, Bowen carried a .256 batting average (45-for-176) with five home runs and 24 RBIs. The trade means that Bowen immediately becomes the starting catcher for the Cubs and he will have about three months to prove he can be an everyday starter.

Burke, a 6'3" 205 pound left-handed outfielder, was the 35th overall pick in last June's Draft (a high school draftee from Chattanooga, Tennessee). This season he was hitting .211 for Class A Fort Wayne and has had a .210 average over his first two seasons in the Padres' organization (79 hits in 376 at-bats).

According to Corey Brock of MLB.com, if Barrett - a free agent after the season - does not re-sign with the team, the Padres would get two compensatory picks in the First-Year Player Draft next June. In acquiring the high-profile catcher, Towers doesn't just help the team for this year's pennant run, he helps bolster the farm system that the Padres have built up since the arrivals of Sandy Alderson and Grady Fuson.

Anteaters Walking it Off!

In their first appearance at the College World Series in Omaha, Nebraska, the University of California at Irvine baseball team has become the first team to win back to back elimination games in extra-innings. For the third time in four games, the UC Irvine - Anteaters, have won a game in their final at bat. The dramatic wins have taken UCI from the cusp of elimination to just two games away from the College World Series Championship.

Late Tuesday evening, Irvine centerfielder Ollie Linton singled with the bases loaded in the bottom of the 10th inning to give UC Irvine an 8-7 victory over Arizona State (49-15) in a College World Series elimination game. The Anteaters rallied to beat the team that put them in the elimination bracket 3 days ago (ASU won 5-4 on June 16th). Facing a 7-3 deficit going into the eigth inning against the Arizona State Sun Devils, Irvine rallied to tie the game. The 'Eaters began the inning by drawing three straight walks. A hit batter and an RBI single would cut the lead to two. An double would drive two more in, but base runner Cody Cipriano (a second baseman who has hit a school record 14 home runs this season) would be called out at third for making contact with the third base coach (Coach's Interferrence). A double play would kill the inning, preserving the tie for ASU and setting the stage for the dramatic win in the tenth inning.

On Monday, UC Irvine played the longest game in College World Series history, beating the Cal State Fullerton Titans (the 'other' Orange County team) by a score of 5-4. It took the Anteaters & Titans five hours & 40 minutes to play 13 innings, beating the old CWS mark for the longest game by 40 minutes (in 1981 Oklahoma State and Arizona State played a five hour game). However, the win was bittersweet for Irvine head coach Dave Serrano, as he played for and coached under Fullerton head coach George Horton. But winning the game made sure the Anteaters would spend another day in Omaha (allowing Irvine to avenge the earlier loss to ASU).

UC Irvine (47-16-1) must now beat defending College World Series Champion Oregon State on Wednesday and again Thursday to win their bracket and reach the best-of-three championship round. If the Anteaters have enough magic to beat the Beavers, they can make UCIs first Championship appearance.

Swing and A Miss

I'm no Max Kellerman, but I felt that Young would take the fight in 6 rounds. On paper, Young looked very dominant as he carried the edge in every major physical statistic (height, reach and three years younger). It could have been a big draw, maybe on a Pacquiao undercard. At least until the fight was stopped prematurely, when Jake Peavy and Marcus Giles went nuts like Roger Mayweather at a Zab Judah fight.


The Tale of The Tape - Joint MLB-IBA Super Heavyweight (200+ lbs)

Christopher Ryan Young
Age: 28 DOB: 05/25/1979
By Way Of: Dallas, Texas
Height: 6'10" Weight: 260lbs
Stance: Orthodox - Classic/Out-fighter

Derek Leon Lee
Age: 31 DOB: 09/06/1975
Hails from: Sacramento, California
Height: 6'5" Weight: 245lbs
Stance: Orthodox - Slugger

Headley's Up!

Third baseman Chase Headley, the San Diego Padres fourth overall pick in 2005, made his Major League debut against the Chicago Cubs today. The former Tennessee Volunteer and second round choice, was called up to spell another rookie third baseman, Kevin Kouzmanoff (strained back). The prized prospect made the jump from Double-A and made his first big league start at third base. The switch hitting Headley went 0-for-3 against Chicago Cubs starter Ted Lilly, in a 4-1 Padres loss.

When he got the call, Headley was leading the 2007 Texas League in hitting (.357) and OBP (.433) and was tied for second in the league with 13 home runs. He also ranked second with 42 RBIs and scored 45 runs in 62 games for the Double-A - San Antonio Missions (the new Padres affiliate in the Texas League). This season, the prospect improved on some solid Minor League numbers. Turning some heads last year (2006), Headley hit .291 (141-for484) with 12 home runs and 73 RBIs in 129 games at Class-A Lake Elsinore.

In less than half the games (62), Headley's 13 home runs have already surpassed his power numbers from last year's full season (129 games). Headley, known for his plate discipline and consistency, has lit up the Texas League (a notorius hitter's league). He batted .360 in April and .324 in May with the Missions, but really heated up in June. Prior to his promotion, Headley was 17-for-39 (in June) with five homers and nine RBIs in 11 games. Hitting .436 for the month and showing increased power, Chase must have shown the Padres that he deserved the call.

2007 Padres Draft - In Depth

Nicholas G. Schmidt (LHP) S/L 6'05" 220lbs (1985-10-10) 1st RND #23 - Signed 06/28/07
Schmidt became the Razorbacks staff ace as a freshman, a pitcher (not just a thrower) who can keep hitters off balance. The Arkansas southpaw has a fastball that sits in the low 90s, outstanding change-up and good breaking stuff. Schmidt was named as a second-team 2007 All-American by Louisville Slugger, Baseball America, the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association & the American Baseball Coaches Association after going 11-3 with a 2.69 ERA in 18 starts for the Razorbacks. Schmidt is a bit more polished than most collegiate pitchers, as he had extensive international experience pitching with Team USA.

Kellen R. Kulbacki (LF) L/L 5'11" 185lbs (1985-11-21) Compensatory A #40 - Signed 06/23/07
Kulbacki has been described as an above-average hitter (plus average with raw power). Named 2006 Co-Player of the Year by Collegiate Baseball News, the college junior possesses a stocky body with a decent arm and below average speed. An average fielder who is better suited for the corners. The first-team All-American was ranked second in the nation in batting .464, led the nation in home runs (24), 75 RBIs, picked up 17 doubles, 13 stolen bases and had the highest slugging percentage in the United States (.943).

Andrew L. Cumberland (SS) L/R 5'10" 175lbs (1989-01-13) Compensatory A #46 - Signed 07/07/2007
Good contact hitter who was drafted for his exceptional speed. The shortstop from Pace High School in Milton, Florida has exceptional range and his speed translates very well on the basepaths. However, scouts are concerned with his arm strength and accuracy. Could possibly be moved to second base or the outfield.

Mitchell D. Canham (C) L/R 6'02" 215lbs (1984-09-25) Compensatory A #57 - Signed 06/26/07
An athletic catcher who possesses a good left handed bat; can hit for average with above average power. The Oregon State University senior has only been a catcher for about three years, but is considered one of the leaders for a team on its way to Omaha. Canham could develop into good defensive catcher or could be moved to a corner INF/OF spot.

Cory R. Luebke (LHP) R/L 6'04" 200lbs (1985-03-04) Compensatory A #63 - Signed 06/23/07
The Ohio State lefty has a fastball that sits in the low 90's and solid off-speed pitches (plus slider & change). Luebke led the Big Ten in ERA (1.95) this season. Though scouts question whether or not he has a plus fastball, both his fastball & slider have been very effective. According to Cape Cod League scouting, Luebke has good, repeatable mechanics; more coaching and minor changes to his delivery could lead to more velocity.

Daniel A. Payne (CF) L/L 5'10" 185lbs (1985-09-08) Compensatory A #64 - Signed 06/25/07
Deemed a "real baseball player" with marginal physical tools (average speed, average range, good reads, very good arm). The junior from Georgia Tech is a hard-nosed gamer with great baseball instincts who plays well above his ability. Payne is an above average hiiter, with below average power.

Eric S. Sogard (2B) L/R 5'10" 180 1986-05-22 2nd RND #81 - Signed 06/26/07
The 5-10, 180-pound junior second baseman was named the 2007 Pacific-10 Conference Defensive Player of the Year. Sogard, drafted out of Arizona State University, batted .400 (100-for-250) with 12 doubles, four triples, 11 home runs, 62 RBI and 74 runs scored in 64 games for the Pac-10 Conference Champion Sun Devils this season. The Phoenix, Arizona native also earned All Pac-10 honors for the second straight season.

Bradley W. Chalk (CF) L/L 6'01" 1986-01-20 2nd RND #87 - Signed 06/23/07
As a top of the lineup hitter, Chalk batted .366 (59-for-161) with 10 doubles, two triples, 18 RBI, 26 runs scored and nine stolen bases in 45 games for the 2007 Clemson Tigers. Named second team All-ACC in 2007, Chalk is also a two-time member of the ACC Academic Honor Roll. A career.360 hitter at Clemson, he led the Tigers this season in batting average and on-base percentage (.483).

Thomas P. Toledo (RHP) R/R 6'03" 175 1988-12-13 3rd RND #117
Corey S. Kluber (RHP) R/R 6'04" 215 1986-04-10 4th RND #134

Lance F. Zawadzki (SS) S/R 5'11" 185 1985-05-26 4th RND #147 – Signed 06/12/07
Zawadzki is a switch hitting shortstop with a good arm, who can hit for avereage and power. While at San Diego State, Zawadzki hit .335 with ten home runs and 53 RBIs as a sophomore (2005) while playing for coach Tony Gwynn (He also hit the 'first' home run at Petco Park while playing in the Tony Gwynn Classic). Injuries limited the Aztec in 2006 as he struggled with a .243 avg and only 3 home runs. He then transferred to Lee University (Cleveland, Tennessee) and the senior led the Flames to the 2007 NAIA World Series; batting .461 (106-for-230) with nine home runs and 71 RBI over 63 games.

Jeremy S. Hefner (RHP) R/R 6'04" 1986-03-11 5th RND #177 - Signed 06/25/07
Emmanuel Quiles (C) R/R 5'11" 186 1989-10-26 6th RND #207 - Signed 06/25/07
Justin D. Baum (3B) R/R 6'01" 1985-10-06 7th RND #237 - Signed 06/25/07

Matt C. Teague (LHP) R/L 6'03" 210 1984-12-14 8th RND #267 - Signed 06/12/07
Teague was 7-2 with a 3.14 ERA (30 ER/86.0 IP), 74 strikeouts and 16 walks in 14 starts as a senior (2007) for Carson-Newman College in Jefferson City, Tenn. Has a fastball that sits in the low 90s (89-91). A lefty with good size, also throws a good slider and change and likes to work down in the zone.

Wynn I. Pelzer (RHP) R/R 6'01" 1986-06-23 9th RND #297
Christian A. Colon (SS) R/R 5'11" 1989-05-14 10th RND #327

Shane P. Buschini (RF) L/L 6'04" 1985-04-24 11th RND #357 - Signed 06/12/07
Buschini, a Univeristy of San Diego senior, was named the West Coast Conference Player of the Year. The left handed hitting right fielder led the Toreros to the 2007 WCC Championship, a No. 4 national ranking and a No. 8 national seed in the NCAA Regionals. To earn player of the year honors (WCC), Buschini hit .348, with 13 home runs and 58 RBI. He also had a .442 on base percentage as well as a .626 slugging percentage.

Luis M. Martinez (C) R/R 6'00" 210 1985-04-03 12th RND #387 - Signed 06/12/07
Allen J. Harrington (LHP) L/L 5'11" 185 1986-07-03 13th RND #417 - Signed 06/12/07
William K. Conlon (CF) R/R 6'03" 210 1983-03-14 14th RND #447 -Signed 06/12/07
Ryan Hill (LF) L/L 6'00" 185 1985-04-05 15th RND #477 - Signed 06/12/07
Robert L. Perry (OF) L/L 5'09" 190 1984-10-03 16th RND #507 - Signed 06/12/07
Brandon P. Gomes (RHP) R/R 5'11" 175 1984-07-15 17th RND #537 - Signed 06/12/07
Robert Blauer (1B) L/L 5'11" 210 1985-09-08 18th RND #567 - Signed 06/12/07
Nicholas A. McDaniel (RHP) R/R 6'01" 205 1984-11-09 19th RND #597 - Signed 06/12/07

Robert S Woodard (RHP) R/R 6'01" 205 1985-01-10 20th RND #627 - Signed 06/26/07
Woodard, drafted out of the University of North Carolina, went 11-2 with a 3.30 ERA (42 ER/114.2 IP) in 19 games (18 starts) for the Tarheels in 2007. Woodward lead the Tar Heels to their second straight College World Series finals appearance. He compiled 84 strikeouts compared to 28 walks. A 6-1, 205-pound senior right-hander, Woodard became the winningest pitcher in UNC history this season and finished his career with a 34-5 record. The Charlotte, North Carolina native also garnered second-team All-Atlantic Coast Conference honors in 2007.

Tyler J. Davis (RHP) R/R 6'03" 195 1985-05-15 21st RND #657 - Signed 06/12/07
Keoni M. Ruth (2B) R/R 5'11" 200 1985-03-21 22nd RND #687 - Signed06/12/07
Angel Mercado (RF) R/R 6'00" 205 1985-08-19 23rd RND #717 - Signed 06/25/07
Bryan Oland (RHP) R/R 6'03" 220 1985-06-05 24th RND #747 - Signed 06/12/07
Hunter Ovens (RF) R/R 6'02" 215 1988-11-03 25th RND #777
Andrew B. Parrino (2B) S/R 6'00" 185 1985-10-31 26th RND #807 - Signed 06/12/07
Zachary T. Brown (1B) L/L 6'00" 200 1985-03-13 27th RND #837 - Signed 06/12/07
Shawn Olsen (RHP) R/R 6'02" 200 1984-06-05 28th RND #867 - Signed 06/12/07
Brian Joynt (3B) R/R 6'03" 220 1985-03-14 29th RND #897 - Signed 06/12/07
Dylan Axelrod (RHP) R/R 6'00" 195 1985-07-30 30th RND #927 - Signed 06/25/07
Colt Hynes (LHP) L/L 6'00" 200 1985-06-28 31st RND #956 - Signed 06/12/07
Anthony Renteria (CF) L/R 6'00" 180 1989-08-30 32nd RND #985
Andrew Schugel (3B) R/R 6'00" 180 1989-06-27 33rd RND #1014
Joseph Pagan (1B) L/R 6'00" 210 1989-08-30 34th RND #1043
Ross I. Wilson (SS) R/R 5'11" 185 1988-11-09 35th RND #1072

Kobe's Confusion

Seems like Los Angeles Lakers star Kobe Bryant can't make up his mind. For ten years he wore number 8, won three championships, then decided to change his number to 24 (his original high school number). For 7 years he played with Shaquille O'Neal, together they won three championships… in a row, and then Kobe hinted to Laker's management that he wouldn't resign if they resigned Shaq. Then, for the past few years Kobe let the basketball world believe that it was his Kobe-ness that ran Shaq out of Los Angeles. This past week, Kobe decides to drop the bombshell that it was actually owner Dr. Jerry Buss' idea to run the big fat fella with declining skills out of town. (Btw Kobe - thanks for jumping the gun to make it even harder to trade the Diesel.) For someone who prides himself on being intelligent and cultured, Kobe doesn’t seem to think things through..

Kobe seems conflicted, confused. Maybe he’s bi-polar? Maybe he needs a big-brother type figure? Maybe he just needs a hug (or a friend, but that’s another post) There are times Kobe feels their best chance to win involves scoring more than 50 points a game (and 200 points in a four game span); and there are other times Kobe will go almost the whole game (2006 playoffs against the Suns) without putting up any shots. The Lakers are Kobe's team. The Lakers AREN'T Kobe's team. He’s a great teammate. He doesn’t have any friends on the team. I want to be traded! I don't want to be traded! Will the real Kobe Bryant please stand up?

Kobe Bryant might be right; maybe the only way he'll win another championship is if he gets traded to another team. The Lakers seem to have a ton of problems, both on the court and in the front office. The current roster is loaded with players who are either oft injured or can't make wide-open jump shots. To further compound the rebuilding process, the Lakers second best player, Lamar Odom, is a free agent; and their only trade-able players are the ones worth keeping (Andre Bynum & Jordan Farmar - Rookie Game All-Stars).

The Lakers front office has also been a mess since Jerry West left for Memphis. West's protégé, General Manager Mitch Kupchak, hasn't been able to draft or sign the same kind of productive talent. Kupchak hasn't drafted or signed any All-Stars or at least any players that could be traded for All-Stars. (Blockbuster trades brought Wilt Chamberlain & Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to Los Angeles and Shaq was signed as a marquee Free Agent). Instead, Kupchak's best trades seem to help other franchises (Shaquille O'Neal - Miami Heat Championship, Caron Butler - Wizards All-Star). Then again, Kupchak may have his hands tied; as everyone else in the front office is related to the owner and his lone superstar always seems to complicate his job.

Phil Jackson may be great at managing superstar egos like Kobe's, but as the late Red Auerbach (Boston Celtics) pointed out, Phil picks and chooses his spots. In other words, Phil goes to franchises that are pre-built for success. In his two terms as the Lakers head coach, Jackson hasn't developed any homegrown All-Stars. He might be a Hall-of-Fame coach, but he's not a great teacher and doesn't develop any young talent. It could be argued that Kupchak hasn't provided him enough talent, but Jackson also has an unwillingness to trust young players - possibly stifling their development (Bynum & Farmar).

Both Phil and Kobe might have a front seat for a Lakers renaissance if Jerry West returns. Unfortunately, all of Kobe's pouting has made West rethink his return to Los Angeles. In fact, Kobe's annual media tirades may make it difficult for the Lakers to sign any top-tier Free Agents. Kobe wants someone to share the load, but doesn't seem to want to share the spotlight. He also wants to be the franchise guy, but keeps making things difficult for his franchise to grow and win. Kobe needs to think things through and make up his mind because he can't have it both ways.

Show Me The Love!

The San Diego Padres started their 2007 First-Year Player Draft by signing a 2006 draftee, right-handed pitcher Matthew Latos. A possible first rounder in the 2007 draft, Latos was shown a lot of love by the Padres, earning a $1.25 million signing bonus. Signed just before the signing deadline for 2006 draftees, Padres General Manager Kevin Towers seemed to have made signing Mat, Matt or Matthew (whichever he finally decides on) a priority. The San Diego GM personally flew to Florida to watch Latos pitch in a Community College tournament. Towers, well respected for his ability to judge pitching talent, must have liked something, because Latos was then invited to the Padres clubhouse while on the road in Atlanta. The 19 year-old out of Coconut Creek High School in Florida, then pitched a bullpen session for manager Bud Black and pitching coach Darren Balsley. Maybe all that love and attention drove Latos' initial asking price of over $3 million down to something more manageable and realistic (since most mid first round draftees slot in the $1 to $1.5 million range).

By showing the big pitching prospect a little love and attention, the Padres kick started its 2007 draft and signing period. By agreeing to terms with Latos, Towers was able to sign a first-round talent - without using any first-round picks. Last year, the Padres drafted Latos, a 6'5" 205 pound right-handed pitcher in the 11th round. Draft stock slipped for the talented 2005 Aflac All-American and his mid-90's fastball, possibly due to maturity concerns and sign-ability. Following errors or bad breaks, Latos was reported to have made angry gestures and outbursts on the mound. It seemed as if the scouts took notice of the immaturity when things didn't go his way. Ironically, most scouting profiles also lauded Latos' superior mental focus as a pitcher, in addition to his size and power arm.

Latos extended his opportunity to sign with the Padres by forgoing a scholarship to Oklahoma, instead enrolling at Broward County Community College. As a draft-and-follow, Latos went 10-3, sporting a 2.03 ERA and totaling 102 strikeouts in just 75 1/3 innings for Broward (FL). In Matthew Latos, the Padres sign another talented pitcher, joining an organization that currently leads the Major Leagues in ERA.

San Diego Padres Hot Corner Needs Reheating

Third base has been a trouble spot for the San Diego Padres. Local baseball history is littered with would-be contenders who have turned the hot corner in an icy wasteland.

San Diego rookie third baseman Kevin Kouzmanoff could be the man that brings a little heat back to the Padres hot corner. If he follows in the footsteps of Adrian Gonzales (Eastlake High), “Kouz” could be the next Padres star with local ties. The former Sweetwater Valley Little Leaguer and Sunnyside School Alum could be the big right-handed bat that local fans have longed for almost a decade.

From 1994 to 1998, the late Ken Caminiti was the mensula di caminetto, the mantelpiece that lead the San Diego Padres to two National League West titles and a National League Championship. In only five years with the Padres, Caminiti earned three gold gloves, a batting title and the 1996 NL MVP. Although his numbers might nave been fueled by substances a little stronger than Snickers bars, it’s hard to find another Padres third baseman with production like Caminiti.

Enter Kouzmanoff, who has hit at every level he’s played in. His past two seasons in the minors, Kouzmanoff hit .333 in 2005 and .379 with 22 home runs in 2006. He was also named the 2006 MiLB.com Minor League Offensive Player of the Year and has just finished the Arizona Fall League batting a paltry .382. His numbers have been monster. All he needs to do is produce at the Major League level.

Described as a great hitter, but a below average fielder, Kouzmanoff has been enlisted by San Diego to create some impact at third base. Graig Nettles, Gary Sheffield, Phil Nevin and Caminiti are the only Padres third basemen to have ever been named All-Stars. Only Caminiti was named more than once. Cammy’s highlights are part of Padres lore, hitting homers from both sides of the plate and throwing runners out while sitting on his wallet.



The only other Padres third baseman to sniff the World Series, Nettles was a great fielder in the decline of his career while playing in his hometown. The former Yankee All-Star only hit .237 during his three-year tenure in San Diego. In 1992, Sheffield came close to winning the Triple Crown hitting .330, slugging 33 home runs with 100 RBI. Sheffield was only in San Diego for year and a half. His glove-work at third was horrible and his bat was quickly sold to the highest bidder during the 1993-94 Padres fire sale. Another huge bat without a glove, Nevin hit 41 homers in 2001. He smashed a total of 132 in his five and half year career as a part-time Padre third baseman.

Kevin Kouzmanoff, welcome to great abyss called Padres’ third base. Kouzmanoff could be the second coming of Brooks Robinson or Mike Schmidt, thankfully he doesn’t bare their weight on his shoulders. Many fans will settle for the next Caminiti or Nevin. On the other hand, “Kouz” could become another footnote in the long list of Padres failures at third. Here’s hoping that the kid who attended Sunnyside Elementary and played Little League in Bonita puts up productive numbers and exorcises the ghosts of Sean Burroughs, Vinny Castilla, George Arias, Lou Merloni, Gabe Alvarez, Jeff Cirillo and so on.