San Diego Padres manager Bud Black has named Brandon Morrow as the team’s fifth starter. The decision moves Odrisamer Despaigne into the bullpen.
The Padres will start the season with James Shields, Tyson Ross, Andrew Cashner and Ian Kennedy on the mound ahead of Morrow,
Morrow has always seemed to have high upside but had trouble staying healthy as a member of the Toronto Blue Jays. He came to camp feeling well with an eye on a rotation spot.
“I threw the ball well in spring training. My arm feels great, and aside from a minor blister issue, my health is great.
“I understand the concern over the injury thing, but that’s behind ne. I’m confident I can do the job. If I wasn’t, why even show up?
“If it wasn’t me in the fifth spot, we would have had some discussions.”
Morrow was 1-2 with a 4.76 ERA in 17 spring innings. Should he stumble it may be just a matter of time before Despaigne replaces him.
