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Padres Spring Update: First Full Squad Workout Is In The Books

A year ago, it seemed that it was just going to be another ho-hum spring training for the San Diego Padres. A solid pitching staff, and a manager in Bud Black that hoped for just enough offense to remain competitive with the elite of the National League West. By the All-Star break, the wheels had come completely off, the offense was one of the worst in the past 50 years of professional baseball, and fans of the Padres were counting down the days until Chargers’ pre-season camp opened.

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Back to the present, over five dozen players took the field yesterday in Peoria for the team’s first full squad work out, and skipper Black couldn’t be happier with what he is already seeing. According to Friar Wire, Black is excited, the players are excited, and the extra attention that the off-season darlings are now receiving, only creates an atmosphere of winning and solid veteran leadership throughout the clubhouse:

"“These guys want to be here. James Shields, Matt Kemp, Justin Upton they want to be here. The guys from last year, Ian Kennedy,Andrew Cashner, Tyson Ross want to be here and are happy the new guys are here… as a group. We’ve got good players that are happy to be here and that’s a good thing.” (h/t, Friar Wire.MLBLOGS)"

Black also added that the players feel comfortable speaking with rock star GM A.J. Preller, who has made memories of Josh Byrnes and his dumpster fire regime, feel like a distant memory: “He’s a fella that has a good feel for players and he has great instincts when it comes to scouting. He’s responsible for all those players and coaches in uniform. He’s an engaging guy that players genuinely like to talk to.”

More News and Notes From Padres’ Camp On Wednesday:

-Starting Pitcher Casey Kelly (groin injury) is still inactive, resting his legs, and has not participated in any drills or throwing sessions, and won’t for several more days.

-Former Cy Young winner Randy Jones will be back in uniform, and will join the Padres as a guest instructor one week from today.

-The oft-injured Carlos Quentin appears to be as healthy as he’s ever been since becoming a member of the Padres, and he’s been taking batting practice, and hasn’t reported any pain…yet.

Stay with Friars On Base throughout spring training for more updates, news and notes as the roster shakes out, and the most celebrated and written about team of the winter heads towards the 2015 regular season!

Next: Ranking the Greatest Free Agent Signings In Padres' History, #1

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