Colorado Rockies opponent insider preview: San Diego Padres

PEORIA, AZ – FEBRUARY 21: Eric Hosmer #30 of the San Diego Padres poses on photo day during MLB Spring Training at Peoria Sports Complex on February 21, 2018 in Peoria, Arizona. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)

Rox Pile: What’s your prediction on Eric Hosmer and his impact on the team?

NS: I think he settles in nicely and proves to be a great fit for the Friars. His biggest impact will be taking the pressure off guys like Wil Myers and Margot who won’t have to be the leaders and instead can just go play.

TR: Obviously, his on-base capabilities will have boatloads of positive effects on the offense, and his fielding skills are fantastic, but the intangibles he brings to the table for such a young team will be the biggest impact he has this year and into the future, in my opinion.

Rox Pile: Will Myers always seems to kill the Rockies. Do you see big things ahead for him in 2018?

NS: Yes, because of my answer to question three. He has protection in the lineup, a healthy and eager Margot in front of him and he won’t have to worry about the “can you lead this ball club” distraction.

TR: I do, repeating Nick’s sentiments exactly. Myers may not be the guy, that’s a fair point. Hosmer providing him with more than just protection in the lineup should take a ton of pressure off of Myers, resulting in a big year, hopefully.

Rox Pile: What’s your prediction for the Padres this season?

NS: I’m going 75 wins. Pitching will hold them back but as long as the team batting and OBP trend upwards and rookies like Joey Lucchesi, Eric Lauer, and Luis Urias hold their own when their promotion comes, fans should consider that a promising season.

Next: Our insider look at the 2018 Los Angeles Dodgers

TR: I’m going to go out on a limb here and say heavy-contention for the second Wild Card berth, eventually falling out of the race in mid-September. I also wouldn’t rule out a busy trade deadline if the Friars are in the hunt, either. My boldest prediction is to look for AJ Preller to revisit prior discussions with the Tampa Bay Rays regarding Chris Archer.

Rox Pile: What’s your prediction on Eric Hosmer and his impact on the team?

Rox Pile: Will Myers always seems to kill the Rockies. Do you see big things ahead for him in 2018?

Rox Pile: What’s your prediction for the Padres this season?

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