THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
SAN DIEGO — David Eckstein and the Padres agreed Thursday on a one-year contract, and the 2006 World Series MVP is expected to play second base for San Diego.
Eckstein, who turns 34 on Tuesday, was the starting shortstop on two 100-win teams during his three seasons in St. Louis. He won World Series titles with the Cardinals (2006) and Anaheim Angels (2002).
A two-time NL All-Star, Eckstein signed with Toronto before last season and was traded to Arizona for a prospect on Aug. 31.
He’ll join a Padres team that has been in a salary-slashing mode since losing 99 games last season, its worst finish in 15 years. Former Diamondbacks CEO Jeff Moorad is negotiating to buy the Padres, a move precipitated by owner John Moores’ divorce from wife Becky.
Eckstein will bring a veteran presence to the middle infield. Luis Rodriguez, who’s never played more than 79 games in a season, is the incumbent starting shortstop after Khalil Greene was traded to the Cardinals in December. That move shed US$6.5 million from a payroll that the Padres project to be $40 million.
The acquisition of Eckstein likely knocks Edgar Gonzalez, older brother of Padres All-Star first baseman Adrian Gonzalez, into a utility role.
The Padres also claimed right-hander Jae Kuk Ryu off waivers from Tampa Bay.
Eckstein hit a combined .265 in 94 games with Toronto and Arizona in 2008. Between the two stops, he made 57 appearances, including 56 starts, at shortstop, and played 24 games without an error, 23 of them starts, at second base.
“David has been a part of two World Series championship teams and knows what it takes to win,” general manager Kevin Towers said in a statement. “He will bring an incredible work ethic to the playing field and should establish himself as a leader in the clubhouse.”
Eckstein played for the Angels during Padres manager Bud Black’s tenure as that club’s pitching coach.
“Eck is the ultimate winner,” Black said. “I look forward to working with him again. He will set a great example for our young players and help the Padres win ball games.”
