Daily Padres Roundup: August 13, 2013

Ross has pitched well since he returned from the disabled list. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

Here is the “Daily Roundup,” Friars fans:

• Some members of the Padres’ minor league system have made significant strides over the last couple of months, particularly pitcher Keyvius Sampson, right fielder Hunter Renfroe, and center fielder Reymond Fuentes.  On Sunday, Bill Center of  The San Diego Union-Tribune discussed how well Sampson, Renfroe, Fuentes, and other minor leaguers who have earned promotions have fared since they were recently promoted.

• Last week, I mentioned how Jack Clark was in some “hot water” regarding some comments he made about Albert Pujols.  The former Friar first baseman said on his local St. Louis radio show that he was told by a coaching colleague (Chris Mihlfeld) that Pujols was “juicing” when both Clark and Mihlfeld were with the Dodgers.  Mihlfeld denied what Clark said, and Clark was fired this past weekend.  Clark’s trouble might not be over, because Pujols is apparently seeking legal action according to FOX Sports.

• Although San Diego has largely struggled over the last two months, Tyson Ross has been one of the few pleasant surprises for the Padres since the month of July began.  Since he moved into the starting rotation last month, Ross has posted a 3-1 record and been very effective with his fastball and slider.  Jeremy Warnemuende of MLB.com recently reported that the right-hander has also been trying to improve his changeup.  If Ross can add an effective changeup to his arsenal, then he will only be a more potent threat in San Diego’s starting rotation.

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