In a series of transactions, the San Diego Padres made some changes to their roster. They decided to designate Nelson Cruz, a powerful hitter and seven-time All-Star, for assignment. Cruz has been with the team for 19 seasons and currently has a batting average of .245, along with five home runs and 23 RBIs in 49 games.Aside from Cruz, the Padres also made other moves. They placed starting pitcher Michael Wacha on the injured list for 15 days due to shoulder inflammation. This move is retroactive to Sunday. Additionally, they opted to send right-handed pitcher Domingo Tapia to Triple-A El Paso.
According to MLB.com, Padres manager Bob Melvin said that designating Cruz was a difficult decision, but it was done with versatility in mind. Melvin also praised Cruz’s impact in the clubhouse and his respected reputation throughout the league. He added that Cruz lives up to his reputation as a leader.
“It seems that versatility is the main focus now. We have a couple of players, including him and Matt Carpenter, who primarily serve as designated hitters (DH). It was necessary for us to provide some players with more rest, have a pinch runner available, and increase our overall versatility. Unfortunately, this decision had to be made today.”Wacha, who had previously missed a start due to a shoulder injury, has performed impressively with an 8-2 record and a 2.84 ERA in 15 starts this season, his first with the San Diego team. Melvin expressed hope that Wacha will be able to return after the All-Star break.
In corresponding transactions, El Paso has brought up Jose Castillo, Matt Waldron, and Matthew Batten. Cruz, aged 43, joined the Padres on a one-year deal during the offseason. Throughout his career, he has hit a total of 464 home runs.
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