The San Diego Padres have designated first baseman/outfielder Jake Goebbert for assignment, after officially signing RHP Josh Johnson to a one-year deal. The move was announced by the ball club, via Twitter.
Goebbert, 27, was acquired by the Padres last May when the team traded 1B/OF Kyle Blanks to the Oakland A’s. Goebbert spent the first part of last season in Triple-A, slashing a robust .296/.410/.539 with 14 homers and 50 RBI between the two organizations.
After earning a promotion to San Diego, Goebbert had an RBI single in his first big league at-bat. Goebbert got off to strong start in San Diego, but faded down the stretch, with just three hits in 27 September at-bats. For the season in San Diego, Goebbert slashed .218/.313/.317, with a homer and 10 RBI in 50 games.
Goebbert swings from the left side and brings some versatility as he is able to play first base and both corner outfield positions. If Goebbert clears waivers, he should be a candidate to claim a bench job for the Padres in 2015. However, given his successful track record in Triple-A, another organization may take a flier on Goebbert.