The San Diego Padres may not have a ton of money to spend, but that doesn't mean they're unable to make upgrades. They've signed Aaron Harang. They've just about put the finishing touches on a trade for Jason Bartlett. They've added Cameron Maybin. And on Friday, they've signed free agent second baseman Orlando Hudson.
Orlando Hudson Signs Two-Year Contract With Padres
Hudson announced on MLB Network Radio that he was prepared to sign with the Padres, and according to Ken Rosenthal, it’ll be a two-year contract worth $11.5 million. That gives him a raise from the $5 million he earned in 2010. The only remaining hurdle is a physical exam, after which it’ll all be official.
The 33-year-old Hudson will play next to Bartlett in San Diego after spending last season with the Twins, for whom he batted .268 with a .710 OPS. He isn't a standout at any particular thing, but he's average or above-average across the board, which makes him a solid, dependable player. His power will be hurt by Petco Park, but he isn't a power hitter anyway, as he's expected to shoot the gaps and play good defense.
For more on Hudson and the Padres, check out Gaslamp Ball.
Update: Hudson’s contract breakdown looks like this:
2011: $4 million
2012: $5.5 million
2013: $2 million buyout or $8 million mutual option
It will be worth a minimum of $11.5 million over two years, or a maximum of $17.5 million over three.
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