The Major League Baseball All-Star break is a time when most big leaguers take a much-needed break.
For three Padres, it's a time to get back to work.
Second baseman Jedd Gyorko, first baseman Yonder Alonso and relief pitcher Nick Vincent spent Monday working out with the Lake Elsinore Storm, the Padres' high-class A minor league affiliate.
Gyorko, who arrived in Lake Elsinore on Monday, is testing the plantar fasciitis that's kept him out for more than a month. Jedd ran, played catch and took a full batting practice without being in any visible discomfort.
Alonso has been battling wrist tendonitis and missed nearly a month. He's spent the last few days with the Storm and might be ready for a rehab assignment soon.
Vincent, who started the season as one of the most reliable relievers in the game before shoulder fatigue set in, is the only one of the three who's game-ready. Nick threw the 6th inning in the Storm's 7-2 loss to High Desert, using all his pitches to retire the Mavericks in order.
It's conceivable Vincent could be back with the Padres by the end of their weekend series against the Mets at Petco Park.
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One other good thing about the big leaguers hanging out with the farm clubs is they are happy to uphold the tradition of buying a nice dinner for the ball club, so the food is a whole lot better.
"Oh, yes it is!" said Storm outfielder Mallex Smith, who leads all of professional baseball with 64 stolen bases this season. "We had really good ribs."
