Brian Dozier signed with Padres intending to be starting second baseman

Brian Dozier, then with the Washington Nationals, looks on during batting practice prior to Game Four of the World Series. (Getty Images)Veteran Brian Dozier, who has played in past two World Series, chose Padres for chance to play a lot

PEORIA, Ariz. —

Brian Dozier came to play.

He spent the offseason mulling other offers, both major league and minor league deals. He ultimately decided on the Padres for a number of reasons, not the least of which was the city of San Diego and the reputation the Padres have to embracing players’ families.

But the Padres let him know there was a job to win, and that was at the top of the list.

“The chance to get back to putting up a lot of at-bats,” Dozier said…