Following up the Houston Astros in my team previews will be another rubuilding franchise. The San Diego Padres look to start new with the young  crop of talented players they have brought in over the past few years. The young Fryers came over in trades from the Chicago White Sox (Peavy deal), Cincinnatti Reds (Latos Deal), Boston Red Sox (Gonzalez deal), and from their own system. Although the San Diego faithful don't have much to root for this season, there is reason to believe they are only a few seasons away from contending for the NL West crown.

San Diego Padres
This year is going to be a growing year in southern California. The padres will be calling up a lot of youngsters and trying to figure out who is here to stay. If your in a keeper league, the Padres are a team to watch as they will most certainly be one of the younger teams in baseball.

Fantasy Impact Players
Kory Luebke SP
2012 will be Luebke's first year as a full time starter. He started 17 times last year and had a solid year 3.31 ERA along with over 9K's per 9 innings. I think he will be undervalued this year because he pitches in San Diego and the lack of wins scares off many owners.

• MY PROJECTIONS: 10-9, 3.39 ERA, 1.14 WHIP, 161 K's.

Cameron Maybin OF Really broke out last year I like Maybin this season. Double digit power combined with 30 plus steal potential makes him very attractive in the later rounds. The average will most likely stay in the .260's.

• MY PROJECTIONS: BA-.261 HR-10 RBI-79 Runs-82 SB-32

Other Notable Players Houston Street RP Still an injury risk, like always, but Street's move to Petco helps out his value this year. However, with the move to Petco comes the downgrade of team. In Colorado he was given a lot of chances. The Padres won't put up big numbers this year. I think he can grab about 30 saves this year but do not get upset when he goes 2 weeks without a save or ends up on the DL a few times. Keep your expectations low. Yonder Alonso 1B I really liked the kid but, when he left Cincy I lost all fantasy love for him. He offers so much power and talent but the move to Petco destroys him. Keep an eye on him this year. Chase Headley 3B Chase is ready for a breakout 2012, the only problem is I don't think its going to be a big breakout. He will have a solid year but he is no more than a late round flyer in standard ten team mixed leagues. Tim Stauffer SP A solid chance for 200 innings with Tim, I think 130 K's is possible. A definite spot starter, especially if he has a favorable match up at home. I could see myself owning him but I think he is more valuable at home than away. Expert analysis huh?

Minor League Prospects Casey Kelly and Robbie Erlin are two future pitchers to keep an eye on. I like the farm system for the Padres I just don't see many of them making noise in 2012. The Recap It's going to be a growing process again in San Diego. They have some talented young hitter, good team speed, and decent pitching but I think they are still a few years away from contending.
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Alex Wiesner