The Padres would love for Austin Hedges’ bat to come around.
In the meantime, Hedges’ designation as one of the best catchers in the game could become official.
Both Hedges and left fielder Hunter Renfroe have been named National League Gold Glove finalists at their respective positions.
Hedges is competing with the Cardinals’ Yadier Molina and the Phillies’ J.T. Realmuto, while Renfroe is up against the Nationals’ Juan Soto and the Diamondbacks’ David Peralta.
Both Hedges and Renfroe are first-time finalists. Among their competitors, only Molina has won a Gold Glove — nine of them, actually.