Joey Lucchesi to Debut Tomorrow

The initial 25-man roster as announced yesterday was undeniably strange. Three catchers, six infielders and only four starting pitchers were definite surprises.

The Padres’ early schedule—three games on, one day off—meant that the Padres wouldn’t need a fifth starter until their eighth game on April 7th. All signs pointed towards Tyson Ross being that pitcher.

But now it’s Joey Lucchesi—not Tyson Ross—and it’s Opening Night—not game eight. This move, which will still necessitate clearing a space on the 40-man roster, doesn’t preclude the Padres from only keeping four starters to start the season. Rather, it re-ignites the competition for the fifth spot in the rotation, pitting 27 year old LHP Robbie Erlin against soon-to-be 31 year old RHP Tyson Ross.

The Padres have a few options in opening a spot for Lucchesi:

1. DFA a current member of the active roster (either Jordan Lyles or Matt Szczur)...Not likely on Day Two of the season.
2. Make a trade...See above.
3. Assign either Colin Rea or Allen Cordoba to the 60-Day disabled list and demote a current member of the active roster...Most likely.

Clayton Richard turned in an extremely strong Opening Day performance going seven innings and allowing only one run. Even so, the twelve inning ballgame meant that five of the Padres’ seven relievers saw action. The Padres are hoping for a strong start from their young southpaw to give the bullpen a rest.