--INF Luis Rodriguez looks to be a front-runner to land a job at second base or shortstop, although the Padres are talking to veteran free agents at both positions. Rodriguez, who took over for injured SS Khalil Greene last season, hit .287 in 64 games with 11 doubles and no homers in 202 at-bats. However, the Padres have had discussions with free agent INFs Omar Vizquel, Mark Grudzielanek and David Eckstein.
--Could Chase Headley be considered as the Padres' second baseman in 2009? With the re-signing of Jody Gerut, the Padres have three strong outfielders in Gerut, Brian Giles and Will Venable, plus the possible return of Scott Hairston. And Kevin Kouzmanoff figures to start at third base if his post-operative shoulder is ready. Could that lead to a temporary move to second for Headley, a natural third baseman? --RHP Heath Bell appears to be headed to arbitration. Bell, who had a 3.58 ERA in 74 appearances for the Padres in 2008 and is the heir apparent to Trevor Hoffman if the closer doesn't return, thought he had an agreement with the Padres at the end of the 2008 season. But CEO Sandy alderson never signed the deal.
--Speaking of Hoffman, the Jan. 2 announcement of Jeff Moorad's intention to buy the Padres must be seen as good news if he intends to remain in San Diego. Hoffman had reached a contract impasse with the Padres, and no further talks were being held. A former player agent, Moorad must realize such an impasse between the team and one of its most popular players is bad for everyone.
--1B Adrian Gonzalez, who is very popular on both sides of the border, said he hopes to represent Mexico in the second World Baseball Classic. Mexico is scheduled to play in San Diego if it reaches the second round of the WBC.
BY THE NUMBERS: 8 -- Stolen bases in 2008 for 2B Tadahito Iguchi. He was the team leader.
QUOTE TO NOTE: "I think I am good to go as long as my (national) team wants me." -- 1B Adrian Gonzalez, on playing for Mexico in the upcoming World Baseball Classic.
