SAN DIEGO -- When right-hander Phil Maton is on the mound, he gives Padres manager Andy Green a vibe similar to that of the All-Star reliever the rookie could soon replace as San Diego's ninth-inning man.
Monday's trade with the Royals sent closer Brandon Maurer and setup man Ryan Buchter to Kansas City, giving Maton an opportunity to pitch in more high-leverage situations. He took advantage of his first shot Thursday, retiring all four batters he faced and striking out the side in the eighth inning of a two-run game.
The trade also moved All-Star left-hander Brad Hand into the closer role.