Versatile Solarte catching on quick with Padres

ATLANTA -- Versatility was one of the reasons the Padres insisted that Yangervis Solarte be included in the trade last week with the Yankees for third baseman Chase Headley.

On Monday, Solarte got his first start at third base for the Padres in the series finale against the Braves at Turner Field.

"Third base might actually be his best position," said Padres manager Bud Black.

Solarte played four innings at third base off the bench in his first week with the team, but started five games at second.

However, with second baseman Jedd Gyorko reinstated from the disabled list Monday, Solarte shifted to third, which is where he'll likely see most of his playing time moving forward.

Black did note that Solarte can also play in the outfield. Chances are, if Solarte keeps hitting, the Padres will find a spot for him in the lineup. He's been batting second and producing.

Heading into Monday's game, Solarte was hitting .333 with one home run and five RBIs in his first 21 at-bats with the Padres. Better still, when he hit that home run Sunday, he became the first Padre to get at least one RBI in his first five games with the team in franchise history.

"It's a good sign," Black said. "He's coming here knowing the opportunity presented to him. It's good to see him trying to make his mark."