Deadline Trade Candidate – Mark Kotsay 

While some clubs in playoff contention are looking to make significant additions ahead of the trade deadline other contenders are in a better position with regards to weaknesses on their roster. They are approaching this deadline looking to add depth, perhaps in the form of a bench bat and/or middle relief help. Teams looking for a guy that can come off the bench late in a pivotal game and get on base should call the Padres about the services of OF-1B Mark Kotsay.

Kotsay has been more than solid as a pinch-hitter for the Friars posting a triple-slash line of .296/.367/.383 in 24 AB in that role. In 2011 he hit .293 with an OBP of .356 in 41 AB as a pinch-hitter with the Brewers. In addition to his pinch-hitting prowess Kotsay brings veteran leadership to the clubhouse. His experience would benefit any young club down the stretch looking for a veteran presence.

I could see Kotsay fitting in well with a club like Pittsburgh who is a little short in the OF as it is and ranks just 22^nd in bench OPS. The Pirates haven

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About the author: Glen Miller

Life-long baseball and Padres fan who attended his first Friar games way back in 1983. I've been a contributor on Friarhood for more than two years and enjoy talking baseball with the knowledgeable fans that frequent the site. Prior to my beginning here I owned and operated my own San Diego sports site while writing for several other sites focusing specifically on hockey. When not watching, reading or writing about sports I might be sleeping or perhaps spending time with my family since I have few other hobbies. I did recently try my hand at golf and am a pretty good pool player to boot.