There's been an overhaul of the Padres minor league system the past few years that would make Billy Beane, Paul DePodesta, and the rest of the moneyballers jealous. The San Diego Union-Tribune says team vice-president of scouting and player development, Grady Fuson, has led to many changes in the organization, namely, a selective approach at the plate
Last year Padres minor leaguers drew more walks than any of the majors' 29 other farm systems. Fueling the surge in walks – four of the six Padres affiliates led their league in walks drawn, one finished second and another ended third – were increases in pitches seen per plate appearance.
Let's hope this approach has trickled it's way up to the major league team, which by my accounts, scored the third fewest runs and hit the fourth fewest home runs in the league last year.




