Chris Denorfia and Padres Agree to One-Year Deal

The San Diego Padres have agreed to a one-year deal with Chris Denorfia.  The move allows Denorfia to return to the Padres outfield in hopes of continued improvement.  Denorfia was a bright spot when he played, and his return is a good thing for the club.  According to Dan Hayes of North County Times, the Padres tendered contracts to all other candidates as well.

Denorfia had his second best season of his short career last season.  He posted a 104 OPS+ last season after putting up a 114 OPS+ during 2010.  He really never got a shot in Oakland or Cincinnati combining for just 237 plate appearances in four years with those clubs.  With the Padres, Denorfia has already had 210 plate appearances in two years.  Denorfia has also surpassed his career numbers with the A’s and the Reds during his time with the Padres:

While Denorfia’s OBP has decreased slightly, his slugging percentage has increased.  His OPS+ is 11 points higher than his days in Oakland as well.  Denorfia has the power to be a 15+ home runs if given the time to play.

Denorfia is a good fit for the Padres.  He can play the outfield much like former-Padre Steve Finley, he can hit the gaps, and he can steal some bases.  Denorfia will probably never be an everyday player, but he is clearly an asset.  The one-year contract is good for both sides.