Vince Faison -- By Robert Sherry

This 5 foot 11, 192 pound star out of Lyons Toombs County (GA) High School orginally signed a letter of tnt to attend the University of Georgia and play on the Bulldogs football team, probably as a DB. However, after being selected in the 1st round of the draft, Faison decided to pursue a pro baseball career instead.

After signing, this 18 year old was assigned to the Padres Rookie-Level team in the Arizona League. There, he batted .309 in 178 AB's (44 games) with 4 HR's, 28 RBI, 6 doubles, 6 triples, 40 runs scored, 18 BB's, 45 K's, and 30 steals in 34 attempts. To end his first pro season, Faison was promoted to Fort Wayne of the MWL. Wh playing in 11 games for the Wizards, Vince hit .208 in 48 AB's with 1 RBI, 2 doubles, 10 runs scored, 6 BB's, 18 K's, and 7 steals in 8 attempts.

This lefthander looks like the future centerfielder in San Diego. The only negative in his game is a below average arm. 2000 should see him start at Fort Wayne but I would expect him to move fairly quickly through the Padres system as long as everything goes well. Probably the best comparison I can give you is that his ability is similar to Kenny Lofton of the Indians. He has the talent to be a special player.