San Diego Padres: Friedrich: It’s not going to be a cakewalk to play us

Despite low expectations for 2017, Christian Friedrich and the San Diego Padres are determined to change the attitude around the organization.

San Diego Padres left-handed starter Christian Friedrich is determined to be part of the group that changes the culture of the organization.

Coming off of a 68 win season, the Padres have a severe lack of experience on their current roster. Though they have a few exciting young players such as Hunter Renfroe, Manuel Margot, and Ryan Schimpf, expectations outside of San Diego are about as low as ever for 2017.

Within the organization however, thoughts are much different. Still feeling like they can win immediately, the young Padres are ready for the challenges a new season will bring.

In an interview just before Christmas, Friedrich laid out his expectations for 2017.

“A division title would be nice. As competitive as it is, it’s not going to be a cakewalk to come into San Diego and play against us. It’s exciting to get that fresh start. I don’t know what the other moves are going to be, but I feel like we’re not even done. And it’s just exciting to go back and feel like this group that we have is going to be a group that’s well committed to each other.”

For several weeks, it appeared that there was a chance Friedrich could be the Opening Day starter. Of course, this changed with the news that the Padres had re-signed Clayton Richard, a 33-year-old veteran.

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Regardless, Friedrich will be part of the rotation in 2017 and the 29-year-old will play a leadership role. Starting 23 games in 2016, the southpaw could easily end up being the second starter. His confidence despite the roster and especially the rotation being so young is refreshing. After all, there is no reason the Padres can’t win right away.

It’s not that Friedrich is promising a postseason appearance or even a winning record. But these comments indicate that there is a change of culture going on within the clubhouse, one which is only possible with a young confident roster which can change the identity of the organization.

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There will be significant obstacles to overcome, without a doubt. But not surrendering before the season even starts is the way to begin. Coming into 2017 with the “why not us” mentality, the Padres will have a chance. Ignoring outside expectations and refusing to roll over even in the midst of a difficult rebuilding process is the only way this team will ever change expectations and become the force in the NL West they are accustomed to being.