Ohio Tim picks #976, Kevin Pickford

Disclaimer:  Night Owl picked #256, which is Clay Condrey at this time.  Clay was featured on the blog on October 12, 2026.

The Player: Kevin Pickford

The card: 2002 UD SP Authentic, #220, 1563/1999

How I got the auto:  I bought it from ABC Unlimited.

About Kevin Pickford: He hit .371 in his senior year of high school.  He was drafted in the second round in 1993 by the Pirates. He played in their system until 2000.  He was granted free agency by the Pirates.  He played independent ball in 2001, he signed as a free agent by the Padres in 2002. He pitched in Portland for 20 games and 16 games for the Padres.  After the season he was granted free agency and signed with the Giants.  He played in their system through 2004.  He had four Tommy John surgeries during his career.  He gave up home run #592 to Barry Bonds.  He is now a real estate agent in Idaho.  

Between:  Rob Piccolo and Jose Pirela

Up Next: Batting Out of Order picks #969, Tommy Pham

Contest:  There is a secret Padrograph lurking out there.  If you pick the right number you will win a $25 Visa Gift card.  

 

 

Batting Out of Order picks #970, Dane Phillips

The Player: Dane Phillips

The Card: 2013 Bowman, BPA-DP, 79/250

How I obtained the auto: I bought it on COMC

About Dane Phillips: Dane was drafted in the 49th round by the Mariners in 2009.  He then attended Oklahoma State and was drafted in the 2nd round by the Padres in 2012.  He never moved beyond A+ in the minors, and played in the Padres system until 2014.  He then played three seasons of independent ball until 2017. After he finished playing he went back to Oklahoma State and finished his degree in mechanical engineering. He now shares an office with his Dad and brother working for Edward Jones. 

Between: Tommy Pham and Mark Phillips

Up Next: Ohio Tim picks #970, Kevin Pickford

Contest: There is a secret Padrograph lurking in the spreadsheet.  Pick the right number and you will win a $25 Visa gift card.

 

Derek picks #1224, Brian Sweeney

The Player: Brian Sweeney

The Card: 2006 Upper Deck #769

How I got the Auto: TTM

About Brian Sweeney: After graduating from Mercy University in Dobbs Ferry, NY Brian played with Lafayette in an independent league.  In September of 1996 he was purchased by the Mariners. He made it to the majors with Seattle in 2003.  In January of 2004 he was traded to the Padres, he pitched in 42 games for the Padres in 2004 and 2006.  He last pitched for the Mariners in 2010.  He had several minor league stints with the Rays, Diamondbacks and Mets. He also pitched in Japan in 2009.  In 2022 he was hired as the pitching coach for the Royals, a job he still holds.  He also acted as the pitching coach for Italy at the 2017 and 2023 at  the World Baseball Classic.

Between: Gary Sutherland and Mark Sweeney

Up Next: Batting Out of Order picks #970 Dane Phillips

Contest: There is a secret Padrograph lurking out there.  If you pick the right number you will win a $25 Visa gift card.

I am looking forward to a Robinson Cano and Rougned Odor signed cards later this month.

A day early, nothing new

 

Nothing new this week.  I am posting a day early because I have to take my computer in to have some work done and don't know when I will get it back.  So here are the numbers chosen so far.

Ohio Tim picks #413, Ben Fritz

The Coach: Ben Fritz

The Card: Shoebox Heroes, Series 2, #332

How I got the Auto: I made the card, sent it to Josh Harrison, an autograph collector in San Diego and he got it signed for me and returned it. 

About Ben Fritz: Ben was drafted by the A's in the first round of the 2002 draft.  He played in the A's system from 2002-2008, then played in the Atlantic Independent League for 3 seasons. In 2015 he joined the Padres organization.  He was the manager of the A level Tri-City Dust Devils in 2016-2017. He was named the Padres bullpen coach in 2019, a position he still holds.  He was an interim pitching coach for the Padres before Reuben Niebla.  On October 30, 2026 it was announced that Ben would be leaving the Padres to become the pitching coach for the Diamondbacks.

Between: Dan Frisella and Reymond Fuentes

Up Next: Derek picks #1224, Brian Sweeney

Contest: There is a secret Padrograph lurking in the depths of the spreadsheet.  If you choose wisely and choose the right number you will win a $25 Visa gift card.  Pick a number between 2-1400
 

Cards As I See Them picks #272, John Costello

The Player: John Costello

The Card: 1992 Score #614

How I got the Auto: I sent it through the mail and got it back.

About John Costello: He was drafted by the Cardinals in the 24th round of the 1983 draft.  He made his major league debut in 1988 with St. Louis.  He played with the Cardinals in '88 and '89. In early1990 he was traded to the Expos for Rex Hudler. In November of '90 he was traded to the Padres.  He appeared in relief in 27 games for the Padres in 1991, before being released.  He pitched for the Mariners AAA club in 1992.

Between: Tom Cosgrove and Mike Couchee

Up Next: Ohio Tim picks #413, Ben Fritz

Contest: There is a secret Padrograph lurking within the spreadsheet. If you choose wisely and pick the right number you will be awarded a $25 Visa gift card.  Choose a number between 2-1400.

 

Batting out of Order picks #363, Randy Elliott

The Player: Randy Elliott

The Card: Shoebox Heroes, Series 2, 
 #122

How I got the auto: I made the card on 12/27/2018 and mailed it to him and he signed it and returned it.  

About Randy Elliott: He was the first ever draft pick by the Padres in 1969. He made his major league debut with the Padres in 1972.  He played in 114 games in four seasons over nine years, playing for the Padres in 1972 and 1974, the Giants in 1977 and the A's in 1980.  He had recurring shoulder problems that would keep  him from playing.  After leaving the game he and his wife, Joi operated a day care center in Utah, he was a part time scout for St. Louis, a special-ed teacher and has coached at his home town high school.  In 1997 he coached the A's class A club in Medford, Oregon.  He now lives in Camarillo, CA and gives private baseball lessons.  He and Joi have four children and six grandchildren.

Between: Donnie Elliott and Alan Embree

Up Next: Cards as I see Them picks #272, John Costello

Contest: There is a secret Padrograph lurking in the spread sheet.  Pick the right number and you will win a $25 Visa gift card.  Pick a number between 2-1400

nothing new this week, but here are the chosen numbers so far.

 

These are the numbers that have been chosen so far.  Pick the right number for the secret Padrograph lurking in the spreadsheet and you will win a $25 Visa gift card.  

Fuji picks #4, Ed Acosta

 The Player: Ed Acosta

The Card: 1972 Topps #123

How I got the Auto: I believe that I purchased it on eBay

About Ed Acosta: Ed was born in Panama in 1944.  Prior to the 1967 season he was signed by the Astros as an amateur free agent.  In 1970 he was sent from Houston to Pittsburgh in an "unknown transaction". He made his major league debut with the Pirates in 1970 and pitched in three games for them. In August of 1971 he and Johnny Jeter were traded to San Diego for Bob Miller.  He pitched for San Diego in 1971-1972.  In 1973-1974 he pitched in Hawaii for the Padres AAA club.  In 1975 & 1976 he pitched in the Mexican League.  He passed away in 2025 at the age of 81.

Between: CJ Abrams and Victor Acosta

Up Next: Batting Out of Order picks #363, Randy Elliott

Contest: There is a secret Padrograph lurking out there.  If you pick the right number you will win a $25 Visa gift card.  Please pick a number between 2-

Derek picks #1212, Brent Strom

The Player: Brent Strom

The Card: 1978 Topps #509

How I got the auto: I bought it on eBay

About Brent Strom: Brent was born to be a Padre.  He was born in San Diego, went to San Diego City College.  He was drafted three times and signed with the Mets in 1970.  He made his major league debut in 1972 with the Mets.  At the winter meetings in 1972 he was traded to the Indians.  He played for the Indians in 1973 and didn't play in the majors in 1974.  In June of 1974 he and Terry Ley were traded by Cleveland to the Padres for Steve Arlin.  He pitched in sixty-two games for the Padres from 1975-1977.  In March of 1978 he was released by the Padres and played in various systems until 1981.  Beginning in 1992 he has served for various teams as pitching coach and consultant.  In 2026 he was a pitching consultant for the Astros.  He is well known as a good pitching coach, with many pitchers complimenting his approach. 

Fun Fact: According to an interview with Tommy John, Strom was the second player to have Tommy John surgery.  Since 1992 Strom has been one of the directors of the San Diego School of Baseball with Tony Gwynn, Alan Trammell and others.

Between: Huston Street and Eric Stults

Up Next: Fuji picks #4, Ed Acosta

Contest:  There is a secret Padrograph lurking out there.  If you pick the right number you will win a $25 Visa gift card.  Please pick numbers between 2-1399

 

Ohio Tim picks #776, Jon Matthews

 The Coach: Jon Matthews

The Card: Shoebox Heroes, Series 1, #462

How I got the auto: I sent him the card and he signed it and returned it on 3/13/2017.

About Jon Matthews: Jon was drafted by the Rockies in 1994 and played two seasons in their system.  After his playing career he served as a coach at Indian Hills Community College in his hometown of Centerville, Iowa.  He then served as a coach in Baltimore and Arizonas systems. In 2017 he served as the Padres outfield coach.  After that he has been in the Padres system as a minor league coach or traveling instructor.  

Between: Gary Matthews and Mike Matthews

Up Next: Derek picks #1212, Brent Strom

Contest:  There is a secret Padrograph lurking out there.  Pick the right number and you will win a $25 Visa gift card.  Pick a number between 2-1397.

New this week 10/25/2026, Tim Flannery and the Chosen

 

Two of these I have had for awhile but I just located them and added them to the Padrograph listing.  I got the Joan Kroc through the mail in 1987.  I wrote and asked for her autograph and this is what I got back.  The Ray Kroc postcard I bought on eBay at the very beginning of my quest which would have been 1986.  I picked up the Ramon Laureano from Josh Harrison.  

While I was out running errands yesterday and spending time with my Granddaughter who turns fifteen today, I stopped by Gavin's (Baseball Card Breakdown)  house and dropped up off some Padres stuff for him.  As usual he greeted me with a Tim Flannery art card.  The space card in the center is the one he gave me today, the others have been languishing in my scanned file.  

Here are all the numbers that have been chosen so far.  No winner this round yet.  Choose wisely.

Brett Alan picks #949, Roberto Pena

The Player: Roberto Pena

The Card: 1970 Topps #44

How I got the auto: I purchased it on eBay in 2019.

About Roberto Pena: He was signed as an amateur free agent prior to the 1960 season by the Pirates.  In 1964 he was traded to the Cubs for Andre Rogers.  He played for the Cubs in 1965 and 1966.  He was drafted by the Phils in the minor league draft. He played for the Phils in 1968.  He was drafted by the Padres as the 48th pick in the expansion draft and played for them in 1969.  In March of 1970 he was traded to the A's for Ramon Webster and then in May he was traded to the Brewers. He passed away in 1982 at the age of forty-five.

Between: Jim Pena and Joe Pepitone

Up Next: Ohio Tim picks #776, Mike Matthews

Contest:  There is a secret Padrograph lurking. If you pick the right number you will win a $25 Visa gift card.  Please pick a number between 2-1396.

 

Jeremy picks #241, Jack Clark

The Player: Jack Clark

The Card: 1990 Topps #90

How I got the Auto: I purchased it on eBay

About Jack Clark: Jack got his start with the Giants, was traded to St. Louis, signed with the Yankees.  The Yankees traded him to the Padres.  The Padres released him and he signed with the Red Sox.  After that he signed with the Expos but never played for them.  

Comment: I have never liked Jack Clark.  He feuded with three of my favorite players Frank Robinson, Ozzie Smith and Tony Gwynn.  He accused Tony Gwynn of being selfish.  

Between: Galen Cisco and Jerald Clark 

Up Next: Brett Alan picks #949, Roberto Pena

Contest: There is a secret Padrograph lurking.   Pick a number between 2-1396 and if you pick the right number you will win a $25 gift card.  Numbers picked will be published each Sunday.  

 

Batting Out of Order picks #555, Alex Hinshaw

The Player: Alex Hinshaw

The Card: Shoebox Heroes, Series 2012, #24, created 7/25/2017

How I got the Auto: ABC unlimited did a signing with him and I got it signed through them.  

About Alex Hinshaw: Alex was drafted by the Giants in 2000 and 2002, the Marlins in 2003 and the Giants again in 2005.  He signed with the Giants in 2005.  He made his major league debut in 2008 with the Giants.  He pitched for the Giants in 2008 and 2009. He played in the San Francisco system until 2011 when he was released and signed with the Padres.  He pitched in 31 games for the Padres before he was placed on waivers. The Cubs picked him up off the waiver wire, he appeared in two games for the Cubs.  The Cubs released him and he signed with the Jays but never appeared for them.  He then played for five different independent teams until 2014.  He founded 95 from the left side baseball academy in Frisco, Texas.

Comment: I remember making this card.  The inset picture is part of a picture of  Alex sitting in the dugout looking at Dave Winfield as he talks to another player.

Between: Dave Hilton and George Hinshaw

Up Next:  Jeremy picks #241, Jack Clark

Contest: There is a secret Padrograph lurking out there. If you pick the correct number you will win a $25 gift card. Each Sunday I will post the numbers that have already been chosen.  Please choose between 2-1396

 

Nothing new this week.

 

Here is the list of all of the numbers that have been chosen so far.  

The first column is the number chosen. 

Second column is who is in that slot in the Padrograph inventory.

Third is the date the write up was posted.  If there is no date it simply means I have written the post but it hasn't been posted yet. 

Lastly is which one of you picked the number. 

I didn't get any new Padrographs this week although I did order a couple that should arrive soon.  

Have a great week.  See you tomorrow when Alex Hinshaw is posted. 

Jafronius picks #803, Brian Meadows

The Player: Brian Meadows

The Card: 2000 Upper Deck #484

How I got the Auto: I purchased it on eBay

About Brian Meadows: He was drafted by the Marlins in 1994. He made his major league debut with them in 2006.  He pitched with them for two seasons before being traded to the Padres for Dan Miceli.  He pitched in twenty-two games for the Padres before being traded mid season to the Royals.  He pitched in 2000 and 2001 for the Royals, then signed with the Twins but didn't make it back to the majors.  From 2002-2005 he pitched for the Pirates and then his career ended in 2006 with Tampa Bay.

Between: Kevin McReynolds and Joshua Mears

Up Next: Batting Out of Order picks #555, Alex Hinshaw

Contest: There is a secret Padrograph lurking.  If you pick the right number you will win a $25 gift card.  Pick numbers between 2-1396. All the numbers picked will appear each Sunday.

Ohio Tim picks #1001, Aaron Rakers

The Player:  Aaron Rakers

The Card: Shoebox Heroes, Series 1, #406, created 10/9/2016

How I got the auto: I sent the card to him and he signed it.

About Aaron Rakers: Aaron was drafted by the Orioles in 1999.  He made his MLB debut in 2004. He pitched for the O's in 2004 and 2005.  He missed all of the 2006 due to a torn labrum.  He was released by Baltimore after the season and was invited to spring training with the Padres and was assigned to the Portland Beavers.  He appeared in one game for the Padres.  After the season he signed with the Astros but never appeared in a game for them.  In 2009 he signed with the La New Bears in the Chinese Professional Baseball League in Taiwan.  He played with them for 2009 and 2010.  He now lives in Fallston, Maryland with his wife and children, he is a sales rep for a beverage company.

Comment: Every time I typed his name all I could hear was Mr. Garvey,  substitute teacher calling the roll. 

Up Next: Jafronius picks #803, Brian Meadows

Contest: There is a third secret Padrograph lurking out there. Pick a number between 2-1396 and if you pick the right number you will win a $25 gift card.  

 

Fuji picks #255, Clay Condrey

The Player: Clay Condrey

The Card: 2002 Donruss The Rookies #108

How I got the Auto: I purchased it on eBay

About Clay Condrey: Clay was drafted by the Yankees in 1996, but did not sign with them.  He was signed as an amateur free agent by Padres scout Theo Epstein in 1998.

He made his major league debut in 2002 for the Padres and pitched in their system and at the major league level in 2002 & 2003.  He was traded in 2004 to the Phillies for Trino Aguilar.  He pitched for the Phillies from 2004-2009.  He won a World Series ring with the Phils in 2008. We was released by the Phillies after 2009 and signed with the Twins, but never made it back to the majors.  He works for a home building company in Texas. 

Between: Keith Comstock and Brooks Conrady

Up Next: Ohio Tim picks #1001, Aaron Rakers

Contest:  I have picked a third secret Padrograph.  All the numbers pick will show up on each Sunday.  If you pick the right number you will be awarded a $25 Visa gift card.  Ebay stopped selling gift cards for their site in August of 2026

New this week 10/11/2026

Just one new this week.  Reliever Jason Adam.   I don't want to talk about the Padres right now.  After watching game three the other night. 

 Contest: Here are all the numbers that have been chosen so far.  If you pick the right number between 2-1396 you will win a $25 gift card.  The latest secret number has not yet been chosen.  Good luck.

Batting Out of Order picks #627, Greg Keagle

The Player: Greg Keagle

The Card: 1994 Topps #753

How I got the Auto: I mailed it to him and he signed it and returned it. 

About Greg Keagle: He was drafted by the Padres in 1993 and dealt to the Mariners in September of1995 with Andy Benes for Marc Newfield and Ron Villone.  In December of 1995 the Tigers drafted him from the Mariners in the Rule 5 draft.  He made his major league debut in 1996 and pitched for the them through 1998.  He stayed in baseball through 2005.  He played in the minors for the Tigers and Marlins. He also pitched for the Elmira Pioneers in the Can-Am league, pitching a no hitter for the Pioneers.  He was a player coach for a while.  He last pitched for the Pioneers in 2005.  Since retiring he has been coaching for the Rochester Institute of Technology and he another former player started a player development group Grow2Probaseball. He and his wife and three children live in Pittsford, New York.

Between: Sean Kazmar and Randy Keisler

Up Next: Fuji picks #255, Clay Condrey

Contest: There is a secret Padrograph lurking.  If you choose the right number you will win a $25 gift card.  Each Sunday I will post all the numbers that have been chosen.

 

Night Owl picks #928, Greg Page

The Player: Greg Page

The Card: 1995 Shoebox Heroes, Series 2, #302

How I Obtained the Auto: Another blogger about six or seven years ago was trying to make card fronts of everyone who had played for every team for every season. I unfortunately cannot remember who it was.  I got all the Padres from him and made card backs for them and sent them to some of the players and asked them to sign them.  Greg Page was one of them. I got it back in the mail on December 28, 2019. After reading a few other blogs yesterday I realized the other blogger was Johnny,hiflew author of Cards from the Quarry.  He passed away this last summer, I just found out yesterday.  He will be missed I remember doing a few trades with him and we did some custom trading.  He made the card fronts for the 1995 Padres replacement players.  

About Greg Page: Page was a replacement player for San Diego during the lockout and strike that lead up to the 1995 season.  Since the work stoppage ended on April 2 none of the replacement players played in the regular season. He played in the Giants minor league system from 1988-1990.  He was working at a mortage company when he attempted his comeback in 1995.  

Interesting: I found out writing that any of the replacement players who made it to the majors on their own merit were denied union membership, so the did not get any union benefits during their time in the major leagues.  They wouldn't be pictured on cards or be part of the merchandising pools.  

Between: Emilio Pagan and Mike Pagliarulo

Up Next: Batting Out of Order picks #627, Greg Keagle

Contest: There is a secret Padrograph lurking out there. If you pick the correct number you will win a $25 gift card. Each Sunday I will post the numbers that have already been chosen. I have chosen the 3rd secret Padrograph.  

We have our second winner, Matt picked #492, Tony Gwynn Sr.

Matt picked #492 a while back but with new additions a number he picked came up.  I will pick a new Secret Padrograph soon.  Matt please email me your email at padrographs@livedotcom

The Player: Anthony Keith Gwynn

The Card: 1987 Fleer, #416

How I obtained the Auto: My Day with Boggs and Gwynn.  From 1990-1995 I worked at Baseball Cards and More in Portland, Oregon.  We did many shows all over the area. One show was held at the Memorial Coliseum.  One of the autograph guest was Tony Gwynn.   The promoter knew I was a fan and asked if I would sit with Tony for two hours and pass the items from the fan to Tony.  So I did, I showed he and his agent, Johnny Boggs, all the cards I had at the time.  There were a few serial numbered cards that they had not seen before.  It was an enjoyable two hours.  I got this card signed that day. Johnny Boggs is Wade's cousin.  Some where I have autographed pictures of me with each of them.  

About Tony Gwynn: Tony was drafted in the third round of the 1981 draft.  He made his major league debut in July of 1982.  He was an All Star fifteen times, won five Gold Gloves, seven Silver Slugger awards and won the National League Batting Title eight times.  He retired in 2001 and was inducted in the Hall of Fame in 2007.  Major League Baseball named the National League Batting Title the Tony Gwynn National League Batting Champion.  There are portions of a freeway in San Diego named for him.  I last saw him in 2013 at a reunion of the 1998 World Series team.  He passed away on June 16, 2014.  

Between: Chris Gwynn and Tony Gwynn Jr.

Up next:  Night Owl picks #928, Greg Page

Contest will continue.  I will choose another secret Padrograph in the next couple of days.  
 

New This Week

Just one new Padrograph this week and it is a little different and necessiated a purchase to go with it.  It is Ed Giovanola on a 1998 Padres postcard.  I went to put it in a four pocket sheet and it is just a little too big, so I had to purchase some 2 pocket pages.  

 

Here is the list of all the numbers that have been chosen so far. You have chosen over 100 different numbers at this point.  We have a second winner at this point which will be revealed this week.  

Batting Out of Order picks #210, Raul Casanova

The Player: Raul Casanova

The Card: 1995 Upper Deck #11

How I obtained the Auto: eBay

About Raul Casanova: Raul never made it to the majors with the Padres but he had an eight year major career. He was drafted by the Mets in 1990 and traded to the Padres in 1992.  He was part of the trade that sent Tony Fernandez to the Mets.  He played in the Padres system until 1996 when he was traded to the Tigers.  He made his major league debut later that year with Detroit.  He played with the Brewers, Orioles, White Sox, Tampa Bay and the Mets. He is now a certified scout and the owner of El Shaddai Hitting Center.  

Between: Yefri Carvajal and Dave Cash

Up Next:  Night Owl picks #928, Greg Page

Contest:  The is another secret Padrograph lurking out there.  Pick the right number and you could win a $25 Gift card.  
 

Matt picks #1234, Gene Tenace

The Player: Gene Tenace

The Card: 1981 Fleer #489

How I obtained the Card: I bought it on ebaY

About Gene Tenace:  Born Fiore Gino Tennaci born on October 10, 1946, he was drafted by the Kansas City Athletics in 1965.  He made his major league debut with the Oakland Athletics on May 29, 1969.  He was part of the A's dynasty that won three consecutive World Series from 1972-1974.  In November of 1976 he was granted free agency and in December of 1976 he signed with the Padres.  He played from 1977-1980 with the Padres.  He hit 68 home runs and hit .237 while there. In December of 1980 he was traded with Rollie Fingers, Bob Shirley and Bob Geren to the Cardinals for Terry Kennedy, John Littlefied, Al Olmsted, Mike Phillips, Kim Seaman, Steve Swisher and John Urrea.  In 1982 he signed as a free agent with Pittsburgh.  In 1986-1987 he was a coach for the Astro's and from 1990-1997 for Toronto. When Toronto's manager Cito Gaston had a herniated disc in 1991, he served as interim manager, going 19-14.  He was part of the Cardinals World Series team in 1982 and a coach when the Jays' won the Series in 1992 and 1993.  He currently lives in Redmond, Oregon with his wife, Linda.  

Between: Gary Templeton and Walt Terrell

Up Next: Batting out of Order picks #210, Raul Casanova

Contest:  There is another secret Padrograph lurking.  There are only 1,309 numbers left to choose.  Try you luck and you may win a $20 gift card.
 

Derek wins with #947, Joe Pepitone

The Winner: Derek (please send me your email and I will send your prize).  Derek I posted the wrong email address for me, I corrected it.  Please try again.

The Player: Joe Pepitone

The Card: Shoebox Heroes, Series 2, #160

How I obtained the Auto:  ABC of a signing with Joe and I made the card and got it signed.  

About Joe Pepitone:  Joe is best known for his days with the Yankees.  The Yankees signed him as amateur free agent before the 1958.  He played in the Big Apple until 1969 when he was traded to the Astros, for Curt Blefary (who would play for the Padres in 1972). In 1970 the Cubs purchased his contract from Houston. In May of 1973 he was traded to the Braves for Andre Thornton.  In June of 1973 the Braves released him.  He then signed with the Yakult Atoms in Japan, appearing in just 14 games.  He often sat out because of supposed injuries, but would be seen out in the nightlife.  Pepitone became a word in Japan for goofing off.  He attempted a comeback in 1976 with the Padres, he appeared in 13 games for the AAA Hawaii Islanders and hitting .225.  He reconciled with the Yankees and was a coach for them.  He passed away from a suspected heart attack in Kansas City, Missouri on March 13, 2023 at age 82.

Interesting: I knew Joe was colorful but I didn't realize how colorful. Joe and his father were admitted to the hospital on the same day in 1957.  Joe was shot at age 17, by a classmate at school, his father, Joe Pepitone Sr. suffered a heart attack.  Junior went home, his father did not.  Senior suffered a stroke and passed away.  Joe had multiple run ins with law enforcement, even doing time at Rikers Island.  He posed fully nude for Foxy Lady magazine and played professional Slo-Pitch softball.  His memoir, Joe, You Coulda Made us Proud, should be good reading.  

Between: Roberto Pena and Luis D. Perdomo

Up Next:  Matt Picks #1234, Gene Tenace

Contest: I have picked another secret Padrograph and let the guessing begin.  Each Sunday I will post the numbers that have been chosen.  Pick between 2-1393.  Thank you.

Derek, please send me your email and I will send your prize.  My email is padrographs@live(dot)com.

 

New This Week

Two new Padrographs this week.  Both found on Ebay.  Two weeks ago I turned 69 years old and my wife bought me two prepaid Visas.  I have been spending them mostly on Padrographs. Craig Kimbrel has one of the most unorthodox sets before pitching and this card shows it well.  He has pitched for the Rays, Royals and Mets this year.

Joniel Hernandez was signed by the Padres this year and was traded during the season for Robbie Ray.

 Contest: We have a winner.  All will be revealed tomorrow. A new guessing will begin tomorrow.  

Batting Out of Order picks #19, Abraham Almonte

The Player: Abraham Almonte

The Card: 2015 Gypsy Queen on card auto, #GQA-AA

How I got the Auto: I bought it on ebAy and received it April 20, 2015.

About Abraham Almonte: In 2005 the Yankees signed him as an amateur free agent.  In 2013 he was traded to Seattle for Shawn Kelly.  In 2014 he was traded to the Padres for Chris Denorfia.  He played in thirty-two games for the Padres.  He was traded to the Indians in 2015 for Marc Rzepczynski.  After the Indians he played for the Royals and D'backs.  He returned to San Diego in 2020 and played in seven games. He played with the Braves, Red Sox and Mets. After being granted free agency in 2023 he has been playing in Mexico.  He is playing this season for the Piratas de Campche.

Interesting: The Memorial patches for both Jerry Coleman and Tony Gwynn are visible on this card.

Between: Billy Almon and Roberto Alomar

Up Next: Matt picks #1234, Gene Tenace

Contest:  Since I would like to give away the first eBay $20 before the end of September, I will give you a clue.  One of Bretts' picks is just two numbers off.  

 

Fuji picks #408, Christian Friedrich

The Player: Christian Friedrich

The Card: 2017 Topps #24

How I got the auto: I bought it on eBay earlier this year, receiving on July 1.

About Christian Friedrich: He was drafted by the Rockies with their first pick in 2008.  He made his major league debut on May 9, 2012 for the Rockies against the Padres.  In February of 2016 the Rockies released him and he signed with the Padres in March.  He made his Padres debut May 13, 2016.  In October of 2017 the Padres released him due to sustained injuries.  In 2019 he played with the independent Burlington Bees. He played in the KBO, before signing with White Sox.  He didn't play in 2020 because of the pandemic.  He then played for the Lexington Legends and the Chicago Dogs. He was released by the Dogs in April of 2022.

Between: Max Fried and Ernesto Frieri

Up Next: Batting Out of Order picked #19, Abraham Almonte

Contest:  There is a secret Padrograph lurking.  Whomever picks the number of the secret Padrograph will win a $20 eBay gift certificate. When the secret number is chosen I will pick another Padrograph.  Please choose a number between 2-1389.  No batches, individual numbers only.  No one has chosen the correct number yet.

 

Brett Alan picked #874, James Needy

The Player: James Needy

The Card: 2015 Bowman #BCP-60

How I got the Auto: I sent the card to him through the mail and he sent it back in 2015.

About James Needy: He was drafted in the sixth round of the 2009 draft by the Padres.  He played in their system from 2009-2015.  Derek looked into his missed systems of 2010 and 2016, and found in 2010 Needy was injured for the season and missed 2016 recovering from Tommy John surgersy.  In 2017 he was in the Marlins system and played for four different teams.  

Between: Blaine Neal and Tyson Neighbors.

Up Next: Fuji picked #408, Christian Friedrich

Contest:  There is a secret Padrograph lurking.  Whomever picks the number of the secret Padrograph will win a $20 eBay gift certificate. When the secret number is chosen I will pick another Padrograph.  Please choose a number between 2-1389.  No batches, individual numbers only.  No one has chosen the correct number yet.
 Someone has come within four numbers of the secret Padrograph.

New this week and needs

I picked up the Miguel Mendez card on Ebay.  It is from this years Bowman Chrome. He was traded to the Giants earlier this year along with Joniel Hernandez for Robbie Ray. Pedro Astacio split the 2005 season between the Rangers and the Padres.  He pitched in twelve games for San Diego.  This is the only card I know of with him in a Padres uniform.  I would really like to get this signed.  The card is from a 2005 Upper Deck team issued set.    

 

Derek picks #24, Matty Alou

 

The Player:  Matty Alou

The Card: 1974 Topps #430

How I got the auto:  Not sure, but more than likely I bought it on Ebay.

About Matty Alou: He was signed by the Giants as an amateur free agent before the 1957 season.  He made his major league debut with San Francisco in 1960.  On September 10, 1963 all three Alou brothers batted in the same half inning.  Five days later they all played together in the outfield for the Giants.  In 1965 he was traded to the Pirates, he played there until 1971 when he was traded to the Cardinals. In 1972 he was traded to the A's.  After the 1972 season he was traded to the Yankees.  In September of 1973 the Cardinals purchased his contract from the Yankees.  In October of 1973 the Padres purchased his contract from the Cardinals.  He played in 48 games for the Padres before being released.  In July of 1974 he left San Diego and played the rest of the season in Japan, where he also played in 1975 and 1976.  He was the National League Batting Leader in 1966.  He passed away from diabetic complications in 2011 at the age of 73.

Between:  Yonder Alonso and Bryann Allman

Up Next: Brett Allan picks #874, James Needy

Contest:  There is a secret Padrograph lurking.  Whomever picks the number of the secret Padrograph will win a $20 eBay gift certificate. When the secret number is chosen I will pick another Padrograph.  Please choose a number between 2-1390.  No batches, individual numbers only.  No one has chosen the correct number yet.  

Someone came within four numbers of the secret Padrograph and many choices are kinda close.  

Below are all the numbers that have been chosen as of 12:30 PM, Friday, September 18, 2026.  Not all have been featured yet.  

Matt picks #1300, Christian Villanueva

The Player: Christian Villanueva

The Card: 2018 Topps Series 2, #661

How I obtained the auto: I bought it on eBay and received it on June 22, 2018.

About Christian Villanueva: He was signed by the Rangers as a amateur free agent in 2008.  In 2012 he and Kyle Hendrick were traded to the Cubs for Ryan Dempster.  In December of 2016 he was granted free agency.  He signed with the Padres in the same month.  He played mostly in El Paso in 2017, getting into ten games for the Padres.  In 2018 he made the team in San Diego as the third baseman.  On April 3, 2018 he hit three home runs in one game against the Rockies at Petco Park.  He was the National League Rookie of the Month.  In August of 2018 he fractured a finger and missed the rest of the season.  He was released by the Padres at the end of the year.  He then played with a couple of teams in Japan and several in Mexico.  He is playing in 2026 in the Mexican Leagues.  

Between: Carlos Villanueva and Ron Villone

Up Next:  Derek picks #24, Matty Alou

Contest:  There is a secret Padrograph lurking.  Whomever picks the number of the secret Padrograph will win a $20 eBay gift certificate. When the secret number is chosen I will pick another Padrograph.  Please choose a number between 2-1389.  No batches, individual numbers only.  No one has chosen the correct number yet.  
 

 

Batting Out of Order picks #10, Mike Aldrete

 The Player: Mike Aldrete

The Card: Shoebox Heroes, Series 2, #318

How I Obtained the Auto: I submitted the card for a private signing and got it signed. 

About Mike Aldrete: He was drafted by the Giants in 1983 and made his MLB debut in 1986 with San Francisco.  In 1988 he was traded to the Expos' (remember them) until 1991.  He was released by the Expos in March of 1991 and signed a free agent contract with the Padres.  He played in twelve games for San Diego before being released.  He finished the season in Cleveland.  He then played with the A's, Angels and Yankees. He retired in 1996 and has been a major league coach since 2004 with the Mariners, Diamondbacks, Cardinals and A's.  He has been the hitting coach for the A's since 2015.

Between: Sandy Alderson and Manny Alexander

Up Next: Matt picked #1300, Christian Villanueva

Contest:  There is a secret Padrograph lurking.  Whomever picks the number of the secret Padrograph will win a $20 eBay gift certificate. When the secret number is chosen I will pick another Padrograph.  Please choose a number between 2-1390.  No batches, individual numbers only.  No one has chosen the correct number yet.  

NEW THIS WEEK

Just one new Padrograph this week, Will Wagner.  My wife and I drove to Tacoma on Monday and went to a Tacoma Rainiers game on Tuesday.  The Rainers, Mariners AAA vs El Paso Chihuahuas, Padres AAA.  I took four cards to get signed, JP Sears, Rodolfo Duran, Bryce Johnson and Will Wagner.  Wagner was the only one I got.  Sears and Duran were the starting battery so I didn't bother them.  I was not able to identify Bryce Johnson.  It was a good game until Tacoma walked it off in the bottom of the ninth.  Cheney Stadium is a nice ball park with pretty good access.  The Chihuahuas disappeared quickly at the end of the game.  We hope to return to Cheney Stadium again next year.  


 

Ohio Tim picks #15, Logan Allen

The Player: Logan Allen

The Card: 2016 Bowman #BP-56

How I got the Card: I bought it on eBay and received it May 27, 2016

About Logan Allen: Logan was drafted by the Red Sox in 2015. In November of 2015 he was traded to the Padresw with several other players for Craig Kimbrel. He made his MLB debut with San Diego in June of 2019.  In July of 2019 he was part of a three team trade that sent him to Cleveland and brought Taylor Tramell to San Diego.  He also played for Baltimore and Arizona.  He has played for teams in Korea in 2025 and this year. 

Between: Dusty Allen and Carlos Alamanzar

Up Next: Batting Out of Order picks #10, Mike Aldrete

Contest:  There is a secret Padrograph lurking.  Whomever picks the number of the secret Padrograph will win a $20 eBay gift certificate. When the secret number is chosen I will pick another Padrograph.  Please choose a number between 2-1389.  No batches, individual numbers only.  No one has chosen the correct number yet.  
 

Fuji picks #824, Eddie Miller

The Player: Eddie Miller

The Card: Shoebox Heroes, Series 1, #445

How I obtained the auto:  ABC Unlimited was taking part in a signing with Eddie Miller and I made the card and they got it signed.  

About Eddie Miller: He was drafted by the Rangers in 1975, he made his major league debut in 1977. In December of 1977 he was part of a four team trade that sent him to Atlanta.  He played for the Braves from 1978-1981, he was then traded to the Tigers where he played in 1982.  In 1983 Tigers traded him to the Phillies, in '83 he played for the Portland Beavers, the Phils' AAA club.  In February of 1984 the Phillies released and in August he signed with the Padres.  He appeared in 13 games for the Padres, hitting the only home run of his career in final major league at bat.  In 1985 he played for the Beaumont Golden Gators, the Padres AA affiliate in the Texas League.  He played in Mexico in 1986-1987.

Fun Fact: I had help on this card.  It is actually a picture of Eddie with the Braves.  I believe Travis Peterson of Punk Rock Paint did the transformation, but it might have been Gavin of Baseball Card Breakdown.  I can't remember now. The picture was originally a photo of Eddie in a Braves uniform.

Between: Drew Miller and Mason Miller

Up Next: Ohio Tim picks #15, Logan Allen

Contest:  There is a secret Padrograph lurking.  Whomever picks the number of the secret Padrograph will win a $20 eBay gift certificate. When the secret number is chosen I will pick another Padrograph.  Please choose a number between 2-1389.  No batches, individual numbers only.  No one has chosen the correct number yet.  
 

Fuji picks #678 Justin Lange

The Player: Justin Lange

The Card: 2020 Bowman Draft Picks, #BD-99

How I obtained it: Bought it on eBay and received it December 23, 2020

About Justin Lange: The Padres picked him in the 2020 draft.  He didn't play at all in 2020 due to the Pandemic.  In 2021 he appeared in nine minor league games for the ACL Padres.  In 2022 he was traded to the Yankees for Luke Voit.  He played in 2022 and 2023 for the Yankees minor leagues. He missed all of 2024 with a shoulder injury, in 2025 he again played in the Yankees system.  He was released in early 2026 by New York and signed to play in an independent league, that only lasted a few games before he was released.  

Between:  Jason Lane and Mark Langston

Up Next:  Fuji picks #824, Eddie Miller

Contest:  There is a secret Padrograph lurking.  Whomever picks the number of the secret Padrograph will win a $20 eBay gift certificate. When the secret number is chosen I will pick another Padrograph.  Please choose a number between 2-1389.  No batches, individual numbers only.  No one has chosen the correct number yet.