Padres Spring Training Wrap-Up: Day 6 (Hosmer’s Swagger Needed)
Eric Hosmer and Wil Myers will solidify the middle of the Padres’ lineup. Or at least that is what the Padres hope.
The Friars have a young left-handed hitter and a young right-handed hitter to build around. Some debate whether each player is overvalued as far as production, but having those two each and every day will go a long way for a franchise that has struggled to find an identity.
You sprinkle in Manuel Margot, Austin Hedges, and Hunter Renfroe into the lineup and you suddenly become encouraged for the future of this Padres franchise. Then there is the minor leagues where Cal Quantrill, Eric Lauer, Joey Lucchesi, Luis Urias, and Fernando Tatis Jr. are all close to making their debuts.
Things are most-certainly looking up, but will it all be sunshine and happy faces? The simple answer is, no. There will be times when the going gets rough and nothing seems to be going right. Inopportune moments like that are what determine the future of a team and its players.
Eric Hosmer brings the reputation as a player who thrives in these moments and enjoys picking up his fellow teammates. He will be challenged this year in San Diego, as the Padres are filled with inexperienced players looking for an identity.
In camp right now, there is a buzz. The media are not allowed to really ask about Hosmer until the contract is signed. As soon as that ink is dry on the contract, you can be sure that Hosmer will be attacked by reporters. The first baseman will be asked every question in the book as the media tries to get to know their new darling.
Wil Myers seems more confident now that he does not need to shoulder the load as “the guy”. He has much work to do with his approach and demeanor on the field, but Hosmer could have a very positive influence on the mostly laid back Myers.
Monday was Labor Day, and a quiet day in camp. The catchers were seen working on drills and there was some light hitting on the back fields. Things should ramp up on Tuesday, as the club gets ready for its Cactus League opener on Friday versus the Mariners.
News and Notes
Rowan Wick got on the mound and threw his first bullpen for the team on Monday.
Luis Perdomo and Cal Quantrill threw a bullpen session, reports FriarWire.
Kyle McGrath, Phil Maton, Colten Brewer, Jose Castillo, Jordan Lyles, Trey Wingenter, and Brad Wieck all threw a live BP session.
A.J. Cassavell reports that Matt Strahm has looked sharp in bullpen sessions this spring.
Wil Myers is in camp and in good spirits. He reports that he did see a sports psychiatrist during the offseason.
Eric Hosmer was in camp. He met a few people and took his final physical with the team. He will be introduced on Tuesday.
Hunter Renfroe is dealing with trade speculation well. He openly conversed with the media about the rumors.
James was born and raised in America’s Finest City. He is a passionate baseball fan with even more passion towards his hometown Padres. Editor-In-Chief of EastVillageTimes.com. Always striving to bring you the highest quality in San Diego Sports News. Original content, with original ideas, that’s our motto. Enjoy.
