Gwynn to Bat Leadoff in 1993

Padre Manager Jim Riggleman, deciding that there could be no better leadoff candidate on his team than a four-time batting champion, said Tuesday that Tony Gwynn likely will bat leadoff for the 1993 season.

Gwynn, who has a .327 career batting average, was approached about the idea at the end of the season, and said he’ll accept the responsibility.

“I told them they can bat me wherever they want,” Gwynn said. “I just want to win. And if batting leadoff is best for the team, I’ll do it.”

Riggleman said his projected 1993 lineup will look like this: Gwynn, right field; Jeff Gardner, Kurt Stillwell or Tim Teufel, second base; Gary Sheffield, third base; Fred McGriff, first base; Phil Plantier, left field; Darrin Jackson, center field; Dan Walters, catcher; Craig Shipley or Kurt Stillwell, shortstop; and the pitcher.

“This is not cast in stone,” Riggleman said, “but that’s the way I’m leaning. I told Tony he’s the best hitter in about four different spots in the lineup.”

Gwynn had a .371 on-base percentage last season, but has stolen only 11 bases the past two seasons. He is attempting to improve his speed and physical condition, however, by working out with a personal trainer.

In other news, former Padre catcher Benito Santiago will be officially introduced at 7 a.m. (PST) today as the Florida Marlins’ latest addition. Santiago agreed to the contract during the weekend. The Marlins also will announce the signing of former Angel reliever Bob McClure.

Also, former Padre third base coach Bruce Kimm was named manager of Double-A Greenville in the Atlanta Braves’ organization.