The San Diego Padres named Jedd Gyorko to their major-league roster Saturday. Now the only mystery is what infield spot the former WVU star will occupy on opening day.
His path to the big leagues blocked at third base by 2012 Silver Slugger Chase Headley, Gyorko spent spring training transitioning to second base. Now, with Headley sidelined by a broken thumb for at least the first two weeks of the season, Gyorko could line up at either position when the Padres face the Mets at Citi Field on Monday.
Regardless, the former University High standout and 2010 second-round draft pick out of West Virginia was thrilled when the club officially announced the roster Saturday — news Gyorko had been sitting on since a Thursday night meeting with manager Bud Black.
After sporting Nos. 68 and 70 jerseys during the spring, Gyorko will don No. 9 during the regular season:
Gyorko made the club as a non-roster invitee in spring training, when he batted .257 with four home runs and 12 RBIs in a team-high 77 plate appearances. Just as crucially, he played error-free ball in the Cactus League, handling all 79 chances at second base and four more at third.
After hitting a combined 30 homers last season at Double-A and Triple-A, Gyorko began the spring as MLB.com’s top-rated second baseman prospect.