DENVER — As strong as Jemile Weeks came on, as well as Adam Rosales was playing, Padres manager Andy Green opted for the direct approach this spring when it became clear Alexi Amarista’s bench spot was up for grabs. That heads up may have softened the blow when the 27-year-old utility infielder learned he was starting the year in the minors for the first time since 2012.
“He knew from the middle of camp on, because I let him know, ‘You’re in a dog fight for a roster spot,’” Green said. “It wasn’t, ‘Hey, you’re not going to be on this team.