We’ve covered the individual players, but how about the team? How have the Padres done through the first half of 2006? Executive summary: The pitching has been better than anticipated and the offense has been pretty much about what we expected. With the exception of third base, there aren’t any glaring weaknesses on this ballclub.

The front office once again has done a terrific job of assembling a strong bullpen on the cheap. Pitching coach Darren Balsley and his staff also deserve kudos for getting the most out of guys that other teams really didn’t want. The turnarounds of Chan Ho Park and Woody Williams have taken everyone by surprise, and Chris Young has emerged as a solid #2 starter. If Jake Peavy can be a little more efficient and get back to his usual form, this pitching staff could make life very difficult for opponents in the second half.

The defense, particularly in the outfield and at first base, is much improved over last year. Mike Cameron in center field makes everyone around him better, as does Adrian Gonzalez at first base. Josh Barfield brings more athleticism up the middle than did his predecessor, Mark Loretta.

Offensively, although Petco Park continues to stifle scoring (#30 out of 30 for the second year running), it hasn’t been as stingy with the home runs as during the first two seasons there. This may be due in part to new buildings that are being constructed around the ballpark and causing wind currents to shift. Whatever the reason, the Padres went into the All-Star break with four players having double-digit homer totals, which is a mighty rare occurrence in these parts.

All wasn’t roses, however, as hitting coach Dave Magadan was replaced by Merv Rettenmund in June. It’s too soon to tell what kind of impact this will have on the club, but at the very least Khalil Greene has brought his batting average up to a semi-respectable .248.

Before the season I pegged the Padres at 80 wins. It appears that I, as have many others, underestimated this club. For the Pads to win 80 games, they’ll need to go 32-42 the rest of the way. Anything is possible, of course, but if the Padres stay reasonably healthy, I don’t see that happening. I’m revising my prediction upward to 85 wins, and even that may be conservative. Their performance in the first half of 2006 wasn’t a fluke. This is a team that plays well together and looks prepared to win the division.

Again.

Grade: B