With the beginning of the season bearing down, the Padres have just admitted that another shortstop of the future won’t cut it. Luis Sardinas, handed the job toward the end of last season, will now become a utility player. Non-roster invitee Erick Aybar has the best shot at becoming the opening day starter at this vital position.
Aybar played for almost a decade for the Angels and became a fan favorite, but his tenure ended with the trade for Andrelton Simmons. In 2011 he received a Gold Glove award. However, as happens when players age, he has shown diminished skills in the field and at the plate.