Explaining the Trade Waivers...sort of

The Padres, dead last in the NL and owners of the worst record in baseball, made a grand total of 1 trade before the deadline on July 31. Whether that is an indication of the front office happy with the status quo (let's hope not) or an inability to find a deal that was adequate or simply that the Padres players that were considered available had zero trade value (looking at you Khalil Greene). I think it's important to point out that the Padres are a year removed from Game 163. Not much has changed and arguably at positions like second base they are in fact better. So, is this year a statistical anomaly or more indicative of the talent on this team? Who knows?

The biggest news of the week was Brian Giles almost trade to the Red Sox. Giles as a limited no-trade clause that includes the Boston Red Sox. This week, after being put on trade waivers (a process I'm told is very common for all MLB teams. According to Paul Depodesta's blog, at some point nearly every player will be placed on waivers). After being placed on waivers, teams had 48 hours to claim Giles, which was done by the Boston Red Sox. Unlike straight waivers however, this merely meant that the Red Sox were the only team the Padres could negotiate with. What would have come back to the Padres for Giles remains a mystery and perhaps the talks never got that far. Giles invoked his no-trade clause, choose to play for a dead last team other then a World Series contender and remains a Padre. This is good news. Giles is one of the more consistent players the Padres have, hitting near .300 and playing a better then average right field. I for one am happy to have Giles still with San Diego.

A very cool event to let you guys know about. Adrian and his wife Betsy have started the Adrian and Betsy Gonzalez Foundation and our having a charity dinner. Padre players will take over Acqua Al 2 as waiters, bartenders, host and even chefs. For more information, check the website.

A scary piece in the U-T regarding the Padres projected payroll in 2009. The rumor is John Moores (in the middle of what is turning into a contentious divorce) apparently predicted a $40 million payroll for '09 as a way to get Giles to accept his trade to the Red Sox. It's clear at this point, true or not, that there is fear in the clubhouse over the direction of this team. Coupled with the uncertainty of who will own the Padres after this divorce and we could all be in for a long 2009. Then again, it could be all talk. A cut to $40 million would cut their current payroll nearly in half. Then again it works for the Marlins...