MLB Previews: San Diego Padres Expectations for 2013

The San Diego Padres haven’t reached the MLB playoffs since 2006, but it doesn’t look great for the Padres come this spring.

It was one of the worst offseasons in recent history for San Diego as one of their most prized player tested positive for elevated levels of testosterone. Yasmani Grandal had enormous expectations prior to November 7th when he tested positive, however he will miss the first 50 games of 2013 and his buzz has slowly faded.

Grandal’s incident isn’t only embarrassing but it’s also a devastating blow in terms of production as he was one of the Padres best hitters last season with a .297 batting average and eight home runs. Nick Hundley will be batting eighth as the backup catcher as the Padres will have to decide upon seasons end to either go with Grandal or Hundley behind the plate.

Bud Black will have his word cut out for him on this team as he lacks a lot of depth in his lineup with Chase Headley being the only player that strikes any fear into opposing pitchers. Carlos Quentin is entering his second season with the team and is hopeful he can return to the 36 home runs he posted with the Chicago White Sox back in 2008 when he almost won MVP.

Clayton Richard and Edinson Volquez are two pitchers that look to make a stamp in the Padres rotation in 2013, but the back of the rotation is one of the worst in the league and will hold them back in 2013 without a doubt.

The Padres are a team that could definitely be dealing talent away come this July as they have some pieces that would look great to possible contenders. I have the Padres winning one more game than last season and staying in fourth place with a 77-85 record.

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