Getting the start in centerfield for the first time after being called up just days ago for the San Diego Padres, Columbia, Missouri native Blake Tekotte went 2 for 3 with a double, a triple and his first major league RBI in a 2-1 win over the Washington Nationals. Tekotte also drew a walk against the talented Jordan Zimmerman, and provided the key offense in the win for San Diego.
The former University of Miami product has been a steady prospect for the Padres and earned his most recent call-up with solid hitting in AA. It's also helpful that starter Cameron Maybin has what the team is calling a "balky" knee. Fellow rookie Logan Forsythe also made his first major league start, giving the Padres a look at what the future might bring if the team conducts a fire sale at the deadline. Veterans like Chad Qualls, Ryan Ludwick and Heath Bell could all be available if the team can't become competitive by the All-Star Break.