NATIONAL HARBOR, Md. • For the second consecutive winter, the San Diego Padres, disinterested in contending, took a young, upside prospect from deep inside the Cardinals' organization with an intent to let him grow on the job, in the majors.
And the Cardinals have allowed it to happen.
A roster bind made the Cardinals choose not to protest infielder Allen Cordoba, picking utility infielder Breyvic Valera, shortstop Edmundo Sosa, and of course Class AAA outfielders Jose Martinez and Anthony Garcia. General manager John Mozeliak said early Thursday morning that he believes Martinez and Garcia will contribute to the major-league team this season.