Robinson relishes first big league stint

SAN DIEGO -- There's no telling how long catcher Chris Robinson will be with the Padres, as he joined the team Thursday to fill in for Nick Hundley, who went on paternity leave after Wednesday's game.

But Robinson, 29, doesn't seem to mind. After spending nine seasons in the Minor Leagues, he is beyond excited to be happy to be a part of a Major League team.

"It's been surreal," Robinson said before Friday's game against the Mets. "After playing nine seasons in the Minor Leagues, it was pretty satisfying to get here."

Robinson was promoted from Triple-A Tucson on Thursday, though his plane didn't land in San Diego until 3:30 p.m. PT. He arrived at Petco Park around 4 p.m. and dressed quickly for batting practice. He did not appear in Thursday's 4-1 loss to the Mets.

Robinson, a native of London, Ontario, was hitting .298 in 29 games with Tucson with 12 RBIs. He was acquired from the Orioles for cash considerations on June 20.

He said his biggest thrill came when he was able to phone his family to tell them the news that he had been promoted.

"Mom and Dad ... I've been waiting nine years to make that call," said Robinson, who is playing for his fourth organization.