Padres News: Shock the world, Pham underrated, 52-man pool

The Padres are one of five teams as identified by MLB that could shock the baseball world in 2020.

Last night, the Padres released their 52-man player pool, as we had our immediate reaction on the news. Several surprises came from the list of players, including several omissions like Brian Dozier. It seemed odd to have Breyvic Valera on this list and not have Dozier, but information surfaced that helped to shed some light on the situation.

So because Dozier was added just a few days before spring training – and thus not on the 40-man roster yet – there is a level of risk if he’s included off the bat and were to be removed in spring training, he’d have to be outright released. Valera was added to the 40-man roster when he was signed. If removed, there’s less likely a chance of him being claimed off waivers.

Some other bullets:

• MLB writer Richard Justice compiled his list of teams that could shock the world in the upcoming 60-game season. He included the Padres, noting the team’s wealth of quality young arms having an important role in the abbreviated year.

"“A shortened season is perfect for a team loaded with young arms because managing the workloads will be simpler.”"

• Will Leitch of MLB.com identified one hitter to watch on every team, naming Tommy Pham for the Friars.

"“Pham is one of the most unappreciated hitters in the game, and he’s never been surrounded with this much offensive potential.”"

• The Athletic ($) named The Swinging Friar as the ninth-best mascot in baseball, giving props to his haircut (LOL).
• Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune identifies several things to watch as the Padres get ready for the first-ever summer camp. He notes key roster battles in the outfield, at second base, and in both the rotation and bullpen.

That’s it for today. Thanks for reading.