SoSD: Bud Black: ‘We’re more balanced’

Bud Black: Racer X’s: The big payback?

Q: Last spring, the emphasis was on creating runs and the running game. Will there be a different emphasis this spring training?

A: It will be the same. Offensively, we now know what it takes to win in Petco Park. That same philosophy applies in a number of parks, especially in our division, San Francisco, Los Angeles and Colorado. The running game will be emphasized again. It puts pressure on the defense. That is something we have to do. Will we make more outs on the bases? Yes. But being aggressive, turning singles into doubles and going from first to third on singles in addition to stealing bases, can’t be underestimated in its value. Not only does it put pressure on the defense, it gives us a boost in how we play.

Q: Do you see this team running as much as the 2010 Padres?

A: I think so, yes. But that’s a factor of us getting on base. A lot of things go into the running game. A big part of it is pitching well enough and playing defense to keep games close enough where the running game can come into play. We did a great job of that last season. The will to run will be there.