We don't have a lot of depth at third base in the system. That's like having a prospect there, but we got him as a sixth-year free agent. That's a great find.

I think everyone would. That's the ideal, ... They get a hit, they create havoc when they're on base. If I had a choice, I'd go that way. But ...

I've touched base with him just to make sure he is ahead of schedule at this point. He's fully aware of how important it is for him to be in a little better shape to start out spring training than what he's probably accustomed to.

The whole thing about playing him at third base is that he doesn't have to make a relay throw and he can rehab his arm. He's got a great arm action so he doesn't have to stress it.

That was an impressive at-bat. He fouled one off his knee and he battled, then he got one he could handle.

He's shown the Padres 80 times what he can do. You don't get too close to the stove without getting burned.