Cedric Hunter was drafted in the third round in 2006 by the San Diego Padres. Hunter made his major league debut this year on opening day, March 31, when he got his first hit and scored his first run as a major leaguer.

This left handed centerfielder started playing baseball at age eight in his home town of Decatur, Georgia, a suburb of Atlanta. Playing centerfield his entire life, Hunter enjoyed watching outfielder Torii Hunter (no relation) play defense as well as the Braves and a young Andrew Jones play baseball.

In high school Hunter played baseball, football and basketball. He ran the point on the basketball court and played cornerback on the football field. By his senior year of high school Hunter was focused solely on baseball. The focus paid off as Hunter was drafted 93^rd overall directly out of high school.

“If I wasn’t playing baseball, I would like to go to school,” Hunter said, “I’ve thought about umpiring or coaching.”

Hunter enjoys working with kids. He speaks motivationally at schools and instructs young ballplayers at a batting cage in Decatur in the offseason.

Due to his world class defense, Tucson Padres' pitchers love to see Hunter in centerfield behind them, as he has taken more than a few extra base hits away from opponents this season.

Hunter will also get on base at a high clip. His on base percentage is .697 and when he is on base he is a distraction to opposing pitchers, stealing eight bases this year, leading to his 32 runs scored.

Hunter’s best baseball statistic may be his .316 average with runners in scoring position, proving he comes through in the clutch. Remaining cool under pressure has led to Hunter’s 23 runs batted in this season, that is fifth best on the team.

“When batting with runners on the key is to not try and do too much,” he said, “I like hitting with runners on base, I think that’s the way it should be.”

Hunter is 23 years of age and a top prospect in the Padre’s organization. He has already seen the major league playing field, and is eager to get back.

Hunter admits that life on the road can be challenging but loves coming to the ball park everyday.

“We are like a family here, and the guys make it enjoyable to be here,” Hunter said.