Headley said the toughest part of transitioning from third base last year was the amount of time he spent not doing anything in the outfield.

"As an infielder, there is always something going on," Headley told the San Diego Union-Tribune. "There is a lot to think about in the infield. You are always engaged mentally.

"In the outfield, you are positioning yourself and watching the hitter's swing to see if you can get a good jump on the ball. With the exception of that, you've got a lot of time to think about things. That was an adjustment for me."

Headley, a 24-year-old switch-hitter, hit .269 in 91 games for the Padres last season after being promoted from Class AAA Portland on June 17. He had nine homers and 38 RBI, but also struck out 104 times in 331 at-bats.

He said he spent much of his time in the outfield last year replaying his at-bats.

"It was counter-productive," said Headley. "I don't think that did me any good. I'm looking forward to not being quite as much on edge."

The Padres front office didn't exactly help Headley last season. He became the poster child for the club's criticized farm system after hitting .330 with 20 homers and a .437 on-base percentage with Class AA San Antonio in 2007.

The Padres believe Headley will cut down on his strikeouts this season. So does Headley.

"I know what I need to work on from last year," said Headley.

WHERE, WHEN: Peoria Sports Complex, Peoria, Ariz. First exhibition game is Feb. 25 against the Mariners.

TOP CANDIDATE TO SURPRISE: C Nick Hundley stabilized a deteriorating catching situation at the end of last season and figures to improve with the help of veteran Henry Blanco this year. Hundley's arm is strong, but he needs to develop his handling of pitchers and improve on his .278 on-base percentage.

TOP CANDIDATE TO DISAPPOINT: RF Brian Giles has been one of the team's steadiest players for the past five seasons. Because of his .387 on-base percentage as a Padre, the club picked up his $9 million contract for 2009 rather than buy out the option for $3 million. However, the Padres likely will try to trade Giles during the season despite his 10-and-5 status. Giles is also facing a $9 million suit from former fiancee Cheri Olvera, who has alleged physical and mental abuse. The pressure on Giles this season could be heavy.

AUTHORITY FIGURES: Bud Black begins his third season as the Padres' manager with a 152-173 record. Ted Simmons replaces Craig Colbert as bench coach. Jim Lefebvre replaces Wally Joyner as the hitting coach.