Padres Off Season Update

Since last season, the Padres have made some moves to improve the franchise. The biggest acquisition has been power hitter Carlos Quentin. Ever since Adrian Gonzalez left, the Padres have had a hole in the middle of lineup. The Padres are hoping that with the addition of Quentin, their offense that finished near the bottom in every offensive category will improve. Another big name to leave the team was Mat Latos. Just a few years ago, Latos finished the season with 14 wins and a 2.92 ERA. He appeared to be the new face of the franchise but after an injury plagued season last year, the Padres decided to trade him to the Red for Edinson Volquez. Volquez is a very talented pitcher who just as Latos has struggled with injuries in the beginning part of his career. His best season was in 2008 when went 17-6 with a 3.21 ERA. The saddest part of the off season was when the Padres lost closer Heith Bell to the Marlins. He quickly made people forget about Trevor Hoffman after he got three consecutive seasons of over 40 saves. Newly acquired closer Huston Street has big shoes to fill, but I think he will do just fine. All in all, the Padres are going to be looking to get in the playoffs for the first time since 2006. With some better hitting, I don't see why they can't, especially in a weaker division.