SARASOTA, Fla.Manager Bobby Valentine said he informed right-hander Vicente Padilla that he would be pitching out of the bullpen on Saturday and is not currently in consideration for the rotation.
Padilla has appeared in four games this spring, spanning 10 innings, including his longest outing of three innings on March 18. But he has been dealing with a right hamstring strain, which has affected his ability to get stretched out enough,
Valentine said Padilla appeared OK with the news that he would be working as a reliever.
Youd have to ask him. I thought it was fine, Valentine said. Seemed like OK, OK Im ready to pitch.
But he explained that hes really feel guy. And a lot of time feel guys need some pitches to get the feel.
Valentine said that Padilla would still be considered as a candidate to start at some point, but not for the time being.