So the Angels, of all teams, signed Vlad Guerrero. Looks like I’ll be making a few more trips to Anaheim this summer.

In other news that refuses to die, according to Fox the Pads apparently are talking to the Pirates once again about catcher Jason Kendall. The U-T also mentions this possibility in today’s print edition. Jeff Cirillo, who cannot block a trade to Pittsburgh, would be involved, as would recently acquired catcher Ramon Hernandez. The U-T mentions that Kendall "is due $20M more than the Padres owe Cirillo and Hernandez" but that the Pads would save roughly $1.9M in 2004 and clear a spot on the 40-man roster were they to make the trade.

The U-T also corroborates Fox’s story that the Padres are interested in signing free agent Jay Payton. If this happens, it would improve the outfield defense but also push Xavier Nady back into limbo.

Fascinating times in Padreland. Never mind the ball; keep your eye on the players.