Padres Release Edmonds

The Padres released the struggling Jim Edmonds today after hitting just .178 with 1 HR in 26 games. Edmonds never really showed signs of turning it around after a down year in St. Louis last season, so this really could be the end for him. The Padres called up Joey Gerut in his place who was hitting .308 in Triple-A.

If Gerut comes up and can't handle the MLB everyday, it is hard not to see the Padres going out and getting either Reggie Willits or Kenny Lofton. The Padres have good pitching, but the offense is dry. If they can get an on-base guy for the top of the order, they will be able to play to their potential and compete in the division.

I don't see Edmonds finding another job, but maybe he will get a one day contract from the Cardinals to retire. Over sixteen major league seasons with the Angels, Cardinals, and Padres, Edmonds has hit .286 with 363 HR and 1127 RBI.