What was once a simple equation — one left-handed-hitting outfielder for another — is not so straightforward anymore.
The Padres are discussing what it would look like keeping outfielder Josh Naylor on the roster once Franchy Cordero returns.
Naylor is 5-for-15 in a five-game hitting streak, during which he has homered twice and gone 2-for-2 as a pinch-hitter. Just as significantly, he has clearly grown from day to day and even at-bat to at-bat.
“We know Josh is going to hit,” manager Andy Green said. “We’ll continue to make determinations on our roster in the future. Obviously, you play well, you get big hits, everyone is going to be inclined to keep you here, and I think Josh is doing some of that.