I'm going to split pitching into four classes -- left-handed starters, right-handed starters, closers and mid-game relievers. I'm also going to list 10 right-handed starters and five left-handed starters.
Why the distinction between right-handed and left-handed starters? Honestly, it's a bit of a cop-out. I didn't want to face picking one pitcher over another for the top spot on my list. Hey, my lists, my rules.
Here's a review of my top picks for the other eight positions. Remember, they are based on just what they did as Padres at their most-played position:
1B: Adrian Gonzalez
2B: Mark Loretta
SS: Garry Templeton
3B: Ken Caminiti
C: Benito Santiago
LF: Gene Richards
CF: Steve Finley
RF: Tony Gwynn
And now, my Top 5 left-handed starting pitchers:
1.