Yep, the Pads are perfect in Peoria.
One down; 193 to go. Sure it’s just one Spring Training game, but 1-0 beats 0-1 by a ton. Fine; less than a ton. The point is, the long hard winter following a measly National League Division Series and out is finally over. Kaput.
During Spring Training, 30 ball clubs, including the ones who shouldn’t, experience optimism. Does the name “Tampa Bay Devil Rays” mean anything to you?
Anyway, for San Diego fans, all is right with the world. At least for a day.
Kevin Kouzmanoff singled and drove in a run in his first game as the incumbent third baseman. Cal Ripken’s old understudy, Manny Alexander, doubled and brought in a couple. Jake Peavy started and got six outs, without allowing a run. Sean Thompson allowed five hits and a run in two innings, but picked up the win. Cla Meredith, Doug Brocail, Trevor Hoffman and Andrew Brown each pitched an inning, with Scott Cassidy getting the save.
What does it all mean? Absolutely nothing. The Padres are undefeated for a day. Next.
Remember, glove conquers all.
— HOWARD COLE