Hoyer and Bell

Jed Hoyer's decision to hold Heath Bell past the trade deadline is looking better by the day. Ken Rosenthal of FoxSports.com reports the new labor pact makes Bell a "modified" Type A free agent. In other words, good for the Padres, good for Bell. The club still stands to get draft pick compensation if Bell declines arbitration. Bell wins because bidders likely will be more numerous than under the old labor terms, as the signing club will not forfeit a draft pick.

Of course, Bell can choose to stay with the Padres by accepting declining arbitration. In doing so, the Loveable Kook would likely spurn a giant pile of cash (and further affirm his nickname).

As the Padres mulled Bell's future four months ago, what advance knowledge of the CBA did they glean? I put that question to Hoyer today. Here's what he said:

Brown

Any baseball team can wear blue or red. The daring and distinctive choice is brown. What can brown do for you, Padres? It's earthy vibe can set you apart from the pack, yet not seem a gimmick. Choose Padres brown, and connect to your funky past.

On the record

Jeff Moorad and Tom Garfinkel had plenty to say about new GM Josh Byrnes and the front office reshuffling. Here's my story, which also confirms A.J. Hinch in the power structure here.