Padres make a trade for a utility player

The Padres made a move for a backup shortstop today, trading minor league pitcher Erik Davis for Washington Nationals Alberto Gonzalez. The Padres were in need of a backup at the position after Kevin Frandsen didn’t pan out during the spring. Everth Cabrera would have taken over the spot, but he needs to get more at bats with the minor league team.

Gonzalez is able to play at all four infield positions, but will be mainly used as the backup at short and second. He has a .253 batting average in his 4 seasons in the majors, with only 2 home runs and 1 stolen base. Gonzalez’ strength is his defense up the middle. Hopefully his defense is really strong, since he won’t win any batting titles soon.