Jed makes his move!

Padres fans have been highly anticipating what major move Jed Hoyer would make first. Today that move was made:

 

Padres Receive:

 

            OF Scott Hairston

            OF Aaron Cunningham

 

A’s Receive

 

            3B Kevin Kouzmanoff

            2B Eric Sogard

 

After just a few days ago writing about the Padres situation at third base; Kouzmanoff is moving on. Kevin gave the Padres three solid years and provided stability at a position the Padres didn’t have stability since the late Ken Caminiti. Kouz was a fan favorite and he will be missed. We wish Kevin the best of luck in Oakland.

Welcome back Scotty-Do! Scott Hairston is one of the few players that has been able to hit in Petco pre-June. He is a clutch hitter that eats left handed pitching alive and has a motor like a football player. 

 

Aaron Cunningham is a hot prospect in the A’s organization (#4 best prospect in the Oakland organization according to Baseball America). Aaron played all three outfield positions last season, but would be a corner outfielder for the Padres. This isn’t the first time Aaron has been traded, the Padres are his fourth team. Cunningham has hit well, in five minor league seasons he has .309/.382/.493/.875. Another solid addition to an up and coming Padres farm system.

 

This is a fantastic trade from my point of view because it now allows Chase Headley to take over at third base. Kyle Blanks to play everyday and platoon Hairston, Gwynn and Venable. This provides the Padres with two right-handed bats in Blanks and Hairston that can both hit it out of Petco and will protect all start first baseman Adrian Gonzalez. 

 

This may also open up the door for Jerry Hairston to sign with the Padres to play with his brother Scott. Jerry would be a welcome addition as a utility player in the infield.