The Diamondback will allow free agent signing Yasmany Tomas to compete for the starting job at third base this spring.
This comes from manager Chip Hale. It is interesting as Tomas’ defensive ability was called into question leading up to his signing with the Diamondbacks. It is believed to be the key reason that the Phillies dropped out of the hunt for the Cuban defector after being considered the favorites for much of the offseason.
Hale’s comments hardly mean that Tomas will play third base. The Diamondbacks infield is in flux after the team traded away Didi Gregorius to the Yankees. It is just as likely the Diamodbacks find another option or settle for Cliff Pennington or Jake Lame at third base.
Padres finalize deal with Clint Barmes
The Padres have signed infielder Clint Barmes to a one-year deal worth $1.5 million with a club option for 2016.
Barmes’ option for 2016 is between $2-4 million reports CBS Sports’ Jon Heyman.
After being limited to just 48 games with the Pirates this past season it is doubtful that the Padres see Barmes as anything more than a utility player. He hit just  .245/.328/.294 with zero homers and seven RBI. The Padres will allow Alexi Amarista to take over at shortstop now that Everth Cabrera has been non-tendered.
