David Wells signs with San Diego

By David
Kaye

Boomer is headed back home to San Diego. He agreed to a one-year deal worth $3 million, but the contract could be worth up to $4 million when you add in incentives. Wells is now 43 years of age,and has been hampered by lingering back troubles throughout his 2o year career. He recently had knee surgery at the start of last season.

If Wells can stay healthy he will add to an already potent pitching staff that acquired veteran Greg Maddux in the off season. Combined, both players have 563 career wins. San Diego will need this veteran leadership if they are to win the tough NL West. Along with Jake Peavy, Chris Young and Clay Hensley, the Padres have an extremely formidable starting rotation. It also doesn't hurt to have the all-time saves leader Trevor Hoffman closing out games for you.

General manager Kevin Towers recently said ''This guy[Wells], when he's healthy, is one of the best big-game pitchers in the history of the game.'' If Boomer can stay healthy, the Padres have a pretty good chance at reaching the World Series for the first time since 1998. Coincidentally, Wells was on the Yankees team that beat the Padres in the 98' World Series.