NL West Notebook: Quentin to learn new position; Ryu dealing with back tightness
Every Thursday, theScore's MLB editors will bring you a roundup of everything you need to know from around the division with the NL West Notebook.
Arizona Diamondbacks
Warming up at the hot corner. The Diamondbacks are apparently willing to give Yasmany Tomas at least a few weeks before determining whether he can handle third base. If the Cuban rookie proves inept at the position, it won't be for a lack of effort.
Trumbo seal of approval. As Diamondbacks skipper Chip Hale prepares for his first year as a major-league manager, Mark Trumbo says he's already making a positive impact on the team.
Colorado Rockies
Tulo taking nothing for granted. Oft-injured superstar Troy Tulowitzki reported to camp with a steely resolve, vowing to return better than ever after yet another lost season. Manager Walt Weiss says his shortstop has a burning desire to be great.
Two-way slider. Tyler Matzek is looking forward to building on the final six starts of his rookie year after expanding the use of his slider. The tweak gives the 24-year-old lefty a five-pitch arsenal and plenty of confidence heading into 2015.
Los Angeles Dodgers
Start me or trade me. Two-time All-Star Andre Ethier will get a chance to win a starting outfield job, according to general manager Farhan Zaidi. That's good news for Ethier, who said he'll demand a trade if he can't secure a spot in the Dodgers' crowded outfield.
Ryu on the mend. An MRI on Hyun-jin Ryu was negative, but the Dodgers will proceed with caution after the lefty experienced mid-back tightness during fielding drills Tuesday.
Call it a comeback. The Dodgers signed free-agent right-hander Chad Gaudin to a minor-league deal with an invitation to spring training. Gaudin hasn't pitched in the majors since 2013.
San Diego Padres
From outfield to infield? Carlos Quentin is looking for ways to secure a starting spot in the Padres' revamped starting lineup, and one scenario involves a potential switch to first base. The 32-year-old suggested the change, despite having never played a position other than the outfield.
Johnson getting close. Padres right-hander Josh Johnson could throw a bullpen session as early as next week, the veteran pitcher tells Dennis Lin. It would be the first such workout in a year for Johnson, who underwent Tommy John surgery last April.
San Francisco Giants
Setback in Hudson's rearview. Veteran right-hander Tim Hudson says he's back on track after experiencing lingering effects from offseason ankle surgery. The 39-year-old expects to be ready for the start of the regular season.
Pagan pain-free. The Giants are set to return an integral part of their lineup this year after losing Angel Pagan in September as a result of back surgery. Pagan, who was sidelined for the Giants' World Series run, says he's never felt better.