This Week in Baseball – Harper Padres Rumor, Realmuto Trade, Mejia Signs, McKeon Hired, Padres Uniforms
Who’s Your Padre?…
After the Padres reported meeting with Bryce Harper in Las Vegas, a rumor leaked that they might be leaning toward offering the 26-year-old outfielder a contract rather than continuing their pursuit of shortstop/third baseman Manny Machado. Bold statements for last season’s second-worst NL team. Similarly I am considering marrying Scarlett Johansson rather than continuing my pursuit of Jennifer Lawrence.
JT or Not JT…
The Marlins’ efforts to trade catcher J.T. Realmuto seem to be nearing a conclusion with five possible teams still showing interest: the Padres, Rays, Reds, Dodgers and Braves. Right now it looks like Cincinnati is the front-runner and are looking at giving up some top prospects. This trade would reinforce their bizarre off-season moves designed to win third place in the division.
The Meaning of Life…
Relief pitcher Jenrry Mejia was recently allowed back into baseball after a lifetime ban he received for three positive drug tests and he has agreed to a minor league contract with the Boston Red Sox. Maybe when the league gave him the lifetime ban, they should have made clear it was only for the lifetime of a house fly.
Old Folks Home…
The Nationals have added to their front office staff by hiring former Miami Marlins manager Jack McKeon as a senior adviser. At 88 years old, McKeon is ideally suited to advise the team about seniors. Where does the shuffle board go? Who operates the Bingo machine? Has anyone seen Mabel’s dentures?
Color Me Bad…
The Padres started focus-group testing brown uniforms on Padres fans this week, with all the variations featuring brown-and-gold combinations. The Padres have had blue and white as their primary color scheme since they moved to Petco Park. Usually when change your appearance to go into hiding you don’t tell everyone about it first.
Get these weekly stories in the comfort of your own inbox by signing up for our newsletter The Box Score.
