SAN DIEGO — Over the past two days, switch-hitting Yangervis Solarte got a start at first and second.
While the 27-year-old Venezuelan might not have a starting position for the Padres, expect to see a lot of him during the 2015 season as a super sub.
Solarte, who was acquired from the Yankees last July 22 as part of the trade that sent third baseman Chase Headley to New York, can also play third and the corner outfield positions.
“Solarte is a guy we will lean on a lot of different ways,” said Padres manager Bud Black. “He comes ready to play every day and assumes whatever role we need him to play.”
Solarte has appeared in six of the Padres’ first seven games — starting two at second while making his first major league start at first Friday night to give the Padres an extra right-handed bat against the Giants’ left-handed ace Madison Bumgarner.
Solarte is hitting .333 (5-for-15) with two doubles and two RBIs.Last year, he hit .290 in 20 games with the Padres with two doubles, a triple and two homers in 62 at-bats.
“We like the switch-hitting and versatility to his game,” said Black of Solarte. “We like the versatility. We think he’s good at the top of the order.”
Early in spring training, Black said Solarte would be part of the Padres’ Opening Day roster even if he lost the regular third-base job to Will Middlebrooks, which he did.
“You are going to see Solarte a lot this season,” said Black.