Orlando Hudson and Jason Bartlett might be nearing the end of their stay with the San Diego Padres, according to team sources speaking with Dan Hayes of the North County Times.
Yesterday's trade of Ernesto Frieri to the Los Angeles Angels which included middle infielder Alexi Amarista in return (along with pitcher Donn Roach) gives the club more flexibility, says Hayes:
The move gives the Padres more flexibility if they decide to release Hudson or Bartlett, both of whom have club options for 2013. Team sources have confirmed that neither player is in the Padres' long-term plans. Both could be released before the season ends.
Hudson is hitting .210 / .256 / 346 on the season, following a career .276 / .343 / .416 line, and Bartlett is hitting .164 / .268 / .230 in 2012, down from his career .272 / .337 / .368 marks.
Bartlett, 32, and Hudson, 34, will both make $5.5 million this season.