Anthony Rizzo Joins San Diego Padres

Anthony Rizzo Joins San Diego Padres

After two months as one of the Pacific Coast League leaders in batting average, home runs and RBIs, Tucson Padres first baseman Anthony Rizzo's contract has been purchased by the San Diego Padres. Rizzo will make his Major League debut tonight and is in the starting lineup for the Padres game against the Washington Nationals. The 21-year-old Rizzo hit .365 in 52 San Diego Padres games, hitting 16 home runs and a league leading 63 RBIs.

Rizzo will become the fourth Tucson Padres player to make his Major League debut this season, joining INF Logan Forsythe, OF Cedric Hunter and P Evan Scribner. He will also become the youngest San Diego Padres position player in nine years to make his Major League debut.

Rizzo made an immediate impression on Tucson Padres fans, hitting a home run at Kino Stadium on Opening Night, April 15, 2011. "Baseball fans in Tucson will always remember Anthony. Not only was a great contributor in his two months as a member of the Tucson Padres, but also a contributor in our community. He took part in the Tucson Lymphomathon and other charitable events. We look forward to following his promising Major League career."

The San Diego Padres announced additional roster moves affecting the Tucson Padres:

INF Kyle Blanks has been transferred from Double-A San Antonio to Tucson. Blanks has played in 87 Major League games with the Padres from 2009 to 2010, hitting .212 with 13 home runs and 37 RBIs.

RHP Evan Scribner has been recalled by the San Diego Padres, replacing RHP Luke Gregerson, who was placed on the disabled list with a strained oblique.

OF Will Venable has been recalled by the San Diego Padres, and OF Aaron Cunningham has been optioned to Tucson from San Diego.