Cuban pitcher Despaigne promoted to Triple-A

PHOENIX -- The Padres have promoted right-handed pitcher Odrisamer Despaigne from Double-A San Antonio to Triple-A El Paso.

Despaigne, a 27-year-old Cuban, will make his Triple-A debut Tuesday after impressing in the Texas League, allowing one earned run in 7 2/3 innings over two starts. He allowed four hits with five walks and 12 strikeouts.

"He threw well in his two starts for San Antonio, mixing all of his pitches from varied arm angles," said Padres vice president of player development Randy Smith. "We felt that he was ready for another challenge against more experienced hitters."

The hitter-friendly Pacific Coast League, with varied hitting environments, should provide that. The Padres, who signed Despaigne for $1 million, feel he's up for the challenge.

"Odrisamer is experienced and savvy enough that he will be able to adjust to hitters at the next level," Smith said. "He's a fun guy to watch as he throws everything except the kitchen sink and he may have thrown that, too."