The Padres took a small step forward in their search for pitching depth Tuesday, claiming right-hander Zach Lee off waivers from the Seattle Mariners.
Lee, a 25-year-old former first-round Draft pick, has had one brief stint in the Major Leagues, pitching for the Dodgers in 2015. In 27 starts between the Los Angeles and Seattle organizations this past season, Lee posted a 6.14 ERA.
The Dodgers' first-round selection in the 2010 Draft, Lee spent time as one of the club's top prospects after turning down an offer to play football at LSU.
But the right-hander from Texas never found a foothold past the Double-A level and was dealt to Seattle last summer. Before the Mariners designated Lee for assignment last week, he ranked as the club's No. 27 prospect.
His arrival in San Diego signifies a reunion of sorts. It was senior advisor Logan White, formerly the Dodgers' scouting director, who took a risk in drafting Lee back in 2010.