The Padres are trying to rebound from a 99-loss season while dealing with a payroll ceiling of around $40 million set by an owner, John Moores, who is in the process of selling the team to a group led by former agent Jeff Moorad. 

--RHP Mark Prior, 28, who missed all of the 2008 season and had a second round of shoulder surgery, has accepted a minor league contract with the Padres that includes a $1 million guaranteed salary for 2009 only if he makes the major league roster. 

The signing of David Eckstein could lead to a scramble for infield spots in San Diego. 

The signing of David Eckstein could lead to a scramble for infield spots in San Diego. 

Heath Bell, who will replace Trevor Hoffman as the San Diego Padres' closer, avoided salary arbitration Tuesday when he agreed to a one-year contract worth $1,255,000. 

Heath Bell, who will replace Trevor Hoffman as the San Diego Padres' closer, avoided arbitration Tuesday when he agreed to a one-year contract worth $1,255,000. 

The O's shot themselves in the foot (again), the Cubs are holding tight and the Dodgers are ready to pounce. 

Another highly touted center fielder, another trade to Baltimore. 

--RHP Mark Prior, 28, who missed all of the 2008 season and had a second round of shoulder surgery, has accepted a minor league contract with the Padres that includes a $1 million guaranteed salary for 2009 only if he makes the major league roster. 

The Padres are trying to rebound from a 99-loss season while dealing with a payroll ceiling of around $40 million set by an owner, John Moores, who is in the process of selling the team to a group led by former agent Jeff Moorad. 

The signing of David Eckstein could lead to a scramble for infield spots in San Diego. 

The Cubs waved goodbye Sunday to another center fielder of the future, trading Felix Pie to Baltimore for two young pitchers. 

The signing of David Eckstein could lead to a scramble for infield spots in San Diego. 

--RHP Mark Prior, 28, who missed all of the 2008 season and had a second round of shoulder surgery, has accepted a minor league contract with the Padres that includes a $1 million guaranteed salary for 2009 only if he makes the major league roster. 

The Padres are trying to rebound from a 99-loss season while dealing with a payroll ceiling of around $40 million set by an owner, John Moores, who is in the process of selling the team to a group led by former agent Jeff Moorad.