SAN DIEGO PADRES

2005 finish: 82-80, 1^st place in NL West

Manager: Bruce Bochy (12^th season)

Free agents: RHP Trevor Hoffman, OF Brian Giles, C Ramon Hernandez, 3B Joe Randa, RHP Rudy Seanez, IF/OF Eric Young, 1B Robert Fick, 1B Mark Sweeney, RHP Pedro Astacio, LHP Chris Hammond, IF Manny Alexander

On the block: OF Ryan Klesko, 3B Sean Burroughs, RHP Adam Eaton

Looking for: Speedy outfielders, relievers, catcher if free agent Ramon Hernandez leaves

Incoming: 3B Vinny Castilla

Long gone: RHP Brian Lawrence, IF/OF Damian Jackson

What’s going on: As it turns out, GM Kevin Towers isn’t going anywhere. After flirting with Arizona and being rumored in Boston, Towers will co-exist with CEO Sandy Alderson. But other things are changing, and not necessarily for the better. Brian Lawrence was sent to Washington for Vinny Castilla, which means Joe Randa won’t be-resigned and Sean Burroughs will be dealt. Franchise icon Trevor Hoffman was insulted enough by the team’s initial offer to clean out his locker at Petco Park. Brian Giles is expected to sign elsewhere, possibly St. Louis, and Ramon Hernandez probably will price himself out of the Pads’ budget, leaving Miguel Olivo as his successor They may move in the fence in right-center field, and are looking to remake the club to better fit Petco Park, and that means right-handed power and speedy outfielders. Mike Cameron could be a possibility when he proves he is healthy. Tampa Bay’s Joey Gathright could be another. They could give arbitration-eligible Adam Eaton a long-term deal, but have at least explored dealing him. David Wells could be reacquired, especially if Eaton is dealt. Role players Mark Sweeney and Robert Fick could return. Ironically, Trevor’s older brother Glenn Hoffman is the new third-base coach, and Tye Waller replaces Davey Lopes at first base.

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