A Few Padres Must Prove They’re Worth the Money

Is it time for the San Diego Padres again, and all of you poor players who will prove to be overpaid again. A few preseason comments:

--To Randy Myers, who apparently won’t talk to the media. You won’t earn what they’re paying you.

--To Benito Santiago, prove you are worth the millions you claim to be worth.

--To Andy Benes, do yourself a favor and tell ‘em to get lost after the season.

--To Fred McGriff, the best to you.

--To Tony Gwynn, too bad there are not more people like you in this world. Maybe you can lead the Padres to better things. I know you will do your part and earn you money.

--To Greg Riddoch, Leo Durocher was quoted as saying, “Nice guys finish last.” I hope you can prove him wrong in these days of portfolio pooh-poohs.

--To Joe McIlvaine, is second place in the NL West a good goal?

--To Padre owners, kudos for not getting sucked in to Bobby Bonilla, Danny Tartabull, etc. If their new teams win it all, it won’t be because of their respective exploits.

--To Padre fans, it’s baseball, the hot dogs are in season, as well as beer, popcorn, Cracker Jack and whatever else brings you out to the old ball game. Sorry I can’t join you all. I am a sinner--I smoke.

CHET LARSON

Solana Beach