The Padres have acquired Ryan Ludwick. Sigh Padre fans, finally the "big bat" has arrived. The Padres have dealt two players, sending pitcher Corey Kluber to the Indians and Nick Greenwood to the Cardinals for Ludwick in a three way deal that also sent Jake Westbrook from the Indians to the Cardinals. The deal will also send cash to the Cardinals and Padres. Nick Greenwood is the other piece in the deal. Greenwood Was a 14th round pick in 2009. Greenwood was playing for Fort Wayne, going 4-4 with a 4.15 ERA. Corey Kluber, 24, having a good season at Double-A San Antonio. 136 K's only 40 walks in 122 2/3 IP. Has a 3.45 ERA. Some scouts see him as a "fringe" prospects however, others see him as a sleeper, having a very good year. Cluber also leads the Texas League in K's. Having said that, the Padres did not have to deal either of their top prospects who have had much interest from several clubs, Simon Castro (17th over all prospect by Baseball America) and Cory Luebke that is on the fast track in AAA after being promoted while dominating AA-San Antonio.

It looks like the Padres win big time in this deal, not having to part with their top prospects which could have depleted their vastly improved farm system, which could have sacrificed the future. Now there is a question who will be the odd man out in the outfield. With the struggles of Will Venable, Tony Gwynn Jr. and Scott Hairston, there will have to be another move, possibly Scott Hairston, Will Venable or the recently surging offensive production from Chris Denorfia could be the odd man out to make room for Ludwick. For now, the Padres designated recently-acquired Quintin Berry for assignment to make room for Ludwick on the 40 man roster.

Moorad is apparently listening to the noise at Petco Park (while the Padres remain in 1st place) and is stepping up to plate as he promised fans he would. Ludwick could get $8 million next year. The Padres are "going all in" folks. Ludwick making $5.45 million this year and is arb. eligible. Could again, get $8 million in 2011. If anything else, this should make a huge statement to fans about the new regime!

Ludwick's defense this season has been a statistical outlier (7.3 UZR), but always played solid average in RF. Also can play a little LF, CF.

Ryan Ludwick's line this year: Avg .281 HR 11 RBI 43 Runs 44 SB

Career Vs. LHP .239

Career Vs. RHP .289

career overall line: .272 .341 .492 .832

Career with RISP: 315 .393 .545 .939

Ryan Ludwick's 162 game Avg's: 80 R, 27 HR, 86 RBI, .272/.341/.492

SB-Nation scouting report:

Assets:

A natural low-ball hitter with very good power, he can hit a lot of home runs and doubles. Flashes a strong outfield arm, helping him pile up assists. Flaws:

Is a little injury-prone. Swings the bat a bit too freely, leading to high strikeout totals and some streakiness. Isn't much of a base-runner.

The Baseball Cube: