Many Chihuahuas Still in Padres Big League Camp
In one week, the San Diego Padres will return to Southwest University Park for the second time in the last three years and they will play the El Paso Chihuahuas in an exhibition game. Three days later, the Padres will host the Milwaukee Brewers in their season opener while the Chihuahuas begin their Pacific Coast League season on the road against Las Vegas April 5th. If you watch a Padres game, almost every notable player with the exception of new additions like Eric Hosmer, Chase Headley, and Freddy Galvis have spent time over the last three years in El Paso.
Here are three former Chihuahuas players, who have each had an excellent spring and are looking to stick in the big leagues.
Franchy Cordero - the 23-year old outfielder has been impressive in camp and he could make the Padres' outfield rotation to begin the season. Cordero is currently hitting .343 with a pair of homers and six RBI's this Spring.
Christian Villanueva - the 26-year old third baseman is making his case to stay in San Diego. The Jalisco native is hitting .297 with three home runs and 13 RBI's. The only downside is that Villanueva has no walks and 10 strikeouts in 32 at bats.
Adam Cimber - the 27-year old submarine thrower spent last season between San Antonio and El Paso, but he has been unhittable in eight games this spring. The right-hander has not allowed a run while striking out six in seven innings pitched. Cimber might not make the Padres out of spring training, but it should not be long before he gets his first call-up to San Diego.
The Chihuahuas announced last week that gates will open at 4 p.m. for fans to watch Padres batting practice prior to next Monday's exhibition game. Fans will have an opportunity to meet several Padres players prior to first pitch. Tickets for the game are available starting at $17 and they can be purchased online or at the Durango Box Office. I will be live at Southwest University Park next Monday from 4 p.m. - 6 p.m. for Sportstalk.