Center of the Sports Universe

(AP Photo/Ben Margot)

Tonight, the San Diego Padres decided to give former University of Richmond graduate, and former 4th overall draft pick Tim Stauffer another chance to prove his stuff in the majors. The Padres did not regret their decision.

Stauffer has not pitched since 2007 when he gave up 18 runs on 5 homers in only 7.2 innings in the majors. He underwent labrum surgery in May of 2008 and missed all of the 2008 season.

I’ve always liked Stauffer and I think Petco is the perfect place for him. He has always had great work ethic and good command of four pitches. While none of his pitches grade as plus they are all at-least average. His biggest knock was that he leaves the ball up too often (he’s given up 15 homers in 94.2 innings in the majors) and he survives off the movement of his fastball.

Stauffer must have had his command and movement working for him tonight. Here is his stat-line from tonight’s game:

Stauffer pitched a gem. The only knock was the amount of fly balls he allowed and one made its way over the outfield fence.

I am not saying that Stauffer is going to make anyone forget about Jake Peavy or become the staff ace, or that he can post an ERA below 3.00 in a full season, but if Stauffer can stay healthy and keep the ball down then this outing could be a small glimmer of things to come.

-Jonathan C. Mitchell