Quentin On the Mend and Should Be Ready for Spring Training for Padres

It was truly a shame that Carlos Quentin missed almost half of the 2012 season.  Not only was 2012 Quentin’s first season in a Padres uniform, but San Diego’s Offense really missed his bat, especially at the beginning of the year.  In spite of his injuries, Quentin actually produced a solid amount when he was able to get on the field last season.

Quentin had an injury-plagued 2012 season. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-US PRESSWIRE

Over his 86 games in 2012, Quentin hit a respectable .264 (in 284 At-Bats), clubbed 21 Doubles, 16 Home Runs, smacked in 46 RBI’s, and led the Friars’ starters in OPS (.877), and Slugging Percentage (.504).  In addition to these numbers Quentin was still his old self when it came to him being able to get on base and the exercise of effective plate discipline.  Quentin Walked 36 Times compared to only 41 Strikeouts, and also led the National League in Hit-By-Pitches with 17.

Sadly for Carlos, it looked like his right knee, the one he underwent surgery on before the 2012 season began, gave him trouble towards the end of the season.  There were points towards the end of the year where he was either removed from games due to his knee issues, was replaced in the later Innings for defensive purposes, or looked a tad slow because his knee appeared to give him issues.

Next season however, the Padres will hopefully have a healthy Quentin before the season starts.  According to R.J. White of CBS.Sports.com, Quentin underwent arthroscopic knee surgery last week, and is in line to be ready for Spring Training next February.  The impending healthy return of Quentin would be a huge upgrade for San Diego’s lineup next season.  Quentin would be able to be surrounded by Chase Headley plus the now somewhat experienced Yonder Alonso and Yasmani Grandal.  This quintet would give the Padres a solid middle of the order, and a core of players to turn to if some extra power is needed.

So let’s keep our fingers’ crossed for a speedy recovery for Carlos, Friars Fans.  This team will need his bat, his glove, and his veteran presence next season, and the middle of the lineup can always use some extra power.

Stats Courtesy of: Baseball Reference