Several Padres were just drafted will be on the team to start the season in the Northwest League including 4th round selection Joey Lucchesi. Also joining him will be 17th round pick Chris Baker out of nearby University of Washington.
The Padres changed their affiliate for this league after over 20 years with the Eugene Emeralds, and the Tri-City Dust Devils made it all the way to the championship series before losing to the Hillsboro Hops.
The team will see some returning players in pitcher Jose Castillo, Aaron Cresley and Will Headean.