Trevor Time back in San Diego? According to ESPN.com’s Buster Olney, some baseball people in the industry are convinced that Trevor Hoffman will return to San Diego. One sports official says, "it makes sense, it just fits". Imagine the reaction from the crowd if Trevor Hoffman could take the mound at Petco park again as a Padre, I can't imagine Petco getting any louder than that. the potential signing of Hoffman could sure make a lot of sense given all the intangibles. The Padres still need to limit their payroll, they will still likely trade Heath Bell (their biggest trade chip other than Adrian) to acquire a middle infielder or two. The Padres owner Jeff Moorad is also known to be "very cognizant of public relations, of fostering good feelings".

One last season reuniting Trevor Hoffman with the Padres could make a lot of sense. If Hoffman falters, the Padres could easily use Mike Adams or Luke Gregerson. Another option could simply be having Trevor as the set up man to help the continued mentoring of the young bullpen. Heath Bell was arguably the best closer in the National League last season, Bell closed out 47 games, going 6-1 with a dominating 1.93 ERA. Hoffman started off 2010 horribly for the Brewers and eventually was bumped for newly appointed closer John Axford who Hoffman graciously mentored. It should be noted that while Trevor struggled mightily in the extreme hitting confines in Milwaukee and the not so friendly pitchers league in the NL Central Division, he did look impressive in the second half.

Hoffman, (Pre-All Star) posted a ERA 8.33 while opposing hitters teed off on Hoffy with a .306 batting average against. Having said that,  Hoffman had much more encouraging numbers (Post-All Star) in the second half, posting a 2.66 ERA and holding opposing hitters to a .208 batting average. Trevor Hoffman is only one year removed from posting a 1.83 ERA and holding opposing hitters to .183 batting average with 37 saves in 2009 with the Brewers. Anyone that has played, coached or watched Trevor's rigorous workout regiment talks about his incredible work ethic. There is not a player in baseball that works out harder to remain in shape than Trevor Hoffman. I would imagine if Hoffman is healthy, wants to reunite and finish his Hall of Fame career where it started in San Diego there could be mutual interest. When I think of the future Hall of Fame closer, I don't think of the minor stints with the Marlins or Brewers, I think of him very similar to Tony Gwynn, a Padre for life.