Padres coaching staff returns intact in 2010

It has been a season of change for the Padres in 2009. Much of that change has been exciting, as we have seen the team transform into an exciting, young group of players with speed on the basepaths and in the field and power arms on the mound.

Still, Friar John is a creature of habit. He takes comfort in the familiar.

That's why it was welcome news Thursday when the Padres announced manager Bud Black's coaching staff will return in 2010.

Check out the Padres press release for the essentials.

There's no great surprise in this news: Black (pictured above) told reporters at the end of the season that he foresaw no changes in the coaches. But a new general manager is on the way, so that was a wild card. And batting coach Randy Ready (pictured left) had an interview for the managerial position in Houston.

Ready, formerly the manager at Triple-A Portland, stepped in as batting coach at midseason when Jim Lefebvre was let go. He did yoeman's work with the youngsters, notably Will Venable, Kyle Blanks, Everth Cabrera and Chase Headley.

The timing of the announcement has FJ making the assumption that Ready isn't a finalist in Houston. Ten candidates were interviewed. Only Manny Acta and Brad Mills have gotten call-backs.

The 2010 staff will be Black, bench coach Ted Simmons, Ready, pitching coach Darren Balsley, bullpen coach Darrel Akerfelds, third base coach Glenn Hoffman and first base coach Rick Renteria.

Good to see a good group back!

FJ