Bud Black Talks Tony Gwynn, Winning Streaks
May 27, 2009 – 7:15 am by Will Brinson
Bud Black has been in a little bit of “limbo” for quite some while — the Padres weren’t supposed to be good this year (not necessarily his fault) and even Jake Peavy was supposed to be gone. Given those two facts, one would assume he’d get axed; regardless of whether or not it’s Black’s fault is irrelevant because managers typically get canned first.
But suddenly the team has signed Tony Gwynn, Jr., son of Padre great Tony Gwynn and managed to win 10 straight games, climbing to second place in the NL West. It’s not a world-beating feat, but it is pretty goshdarn surprising, and it makes Black’s comments about Gwynn and the streak all that more interesting.
(Editor’s note: Maybe we’ll become like the SI Cover jinx as the Padres lost last night.)
On his team’s recent winning streak
“I think the first thing is we’re pitching. The starting pitching through this thing has been outstanding and the bullpen work has been just as solid…Overall, it’s been the pitching and the defense, fundamental play. Through the homestand we’ve had enough hitting to get it done but yesterday [a 9-7 victory] was a good sign to see our offense open up a little bit offensively.“
On the acquisition Tony Gwynn Jr.
“The players were excited about it. I think the organization was excited about it. Tony’s been on the radar for a number of years I think, with probably not only us but with other clubs too. We feel as though he brings a little different element than what Jody did; the defensive element, the speed and he was hitting well this year in AAA. It was the type of player that we didn’t have and we’re going to see if it works.”
Were there other motivations?
“I’m not sure. I think from Kevin’s standpoint, yeah, it does play well with the public but I think it was more of a baseball move than anything. I think we’ll have to through the media guide and check out all-time Padres and see where their offspring is at.”
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Tags: Bud Black, MLB, San Diego Padres, Tony Gwynn Jr
