San Diego Padres Closing In On Trade For Will Myers

While many El Paso Chihuahuas fans are getting ready for next month's Winter Banquet, their parent club is about to shake things up with a major trade. ESPN.com's Jerry Crasnick is reporting that the San Diego Padres are closing in on acquiring Will Myers from the Tampa Bay Rays for five players, including former Chihuahua pitcher Burch Smith. In addition, the Rays will also get minor league first baseman Jake Bauers, right-hander Joe Ross, and two players to be names later.

Myers was the 2013 American League Rookie of the Year, after hitting .293 with 13 home runs in 88 games for Tampa Bay. Last year, a fractured wrist limited him to just 87 games. New San Diego General manager A.J. Preller is quickly adding power to the Padres lineup, since Myers would join former Dodger slugger Matt Kemp in San Diego's reconstructed outfield. Preller will be in El Paso on January 14th as part of the Chihuahuas' Winter Banquet, benefiting the Special Olympics of Texas - El Paso. Individual seats begin at $75 each or a table of 10 for $700. To make reservations, please call Nick Seckerson with the Chihuahuas at (915) 242-2008 or visit http://bit.ly/BanquetTickets.