Blanks reports to camp lighter and ready

Blanks reports 15 lbs lighter than last year

Kyle Blanks is a monster with tremendous potential and a huge ceiling. One of the only real concerns was his weight and whether or not he'd be able to keep it in control. Well it appears he's taking a proactive approach to make sure he gives his career the best possible chance. This is great news for Padre fans as he represents either another potential dynamic bat in the lineup with Adrian Gonzalez or his replacement at first base should the Padres be unable to get him signed and be forced to trade him at some point.

Blanks reports to Padres 15 pounds lighter

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10:00 PM PST on Friday, February 26, 2010

The Associated Press

PEORIA, ARIZ. - The San Diego Padres presented Kyle Blanks with an opportunity, and he wanted to take advantage.

So he went out and dropped 15 pounds this offseason through a combination of dieting and working out.

"It's something I wanted to do regardless," Blanks said. "Could it have an effect? I hope so. I hope being in better shape overall just helps with injury. I feel like I put myself in the best possible position for success."

Blanks hit .250 with 10 homers and 22 RBI in 148 at-bats last season. He is expected to be the Padres' everyday left fielder this year now that Chase Headley has moved to his natural position following the trade of third baseman Kevin Kouzmanoff to Oakland.

After finishing the 2009 season weighing 288 pounds, Blanks -- who missed the final five weeks with a strained arch in his right foot -- weighed in at 273 pounds when he came to camp.

Strength and conditioning coach Jim Malone was excited when Blanks was promoted from Class AAA Portland on June 19. Having had the opportunity to work with Blanks during spring training the three previous years, Malone was eager to get the 6-foot-6 athlete into better shape.

Play Ball !!!