Padres News: Elbert Likes His Chances On Making The Team

They say you never get a second chance to make a first impression. In Scott Elbert‘s case, he kind of can. Elbert was a former first round pick of the Los Angeles Dodgers. Logan White was a part of the Dodgers when they drafted him. Now he is over in San Diego and he brought Elbert (and Matt Kemp and others) with him.

Elbert has a chance to make the team. The Padres have Alex Torres and Frank Garces as lefty bullpen competition. That’s it. Here’s what Elbert told Dennis Lin of UT-San Diego

"“I just kind of waited it out in the offseason, just saw what deals were out there,” Elbert said. “This is the best fit, makes the most sense — coming in here, having a good chance of making the team. I’m all about just a chance. If I get a chance, I feel like I can bring whatever I can to the table and get a good opportunity.”"

Elbert only appeared in seven games last season and didn’t appear in any in 2013 after undergoing Tommy John surgery. 

More from Padres News

Elbert is only 29, and lefty relievers can last in the game for a while. Just because he had Tommy John doesn’t mean he can’t be effective. Plenty of guys have after. In fact, it’s easier for a reliever to come back from it since he won’t have to pitch as many innings.

Elbert has a second chance at a baseball life. The Padres have big expectations, and he can help getting out lefties like Carlos Gonzalez, Brandon Belt and former teammate Adrian Gonzalez.

It’s Elbert’s second chance to make a first impression.

Next: Solarte Should Leadoff?

More from Friars on Base

Schedule