The New York Times reports the Padres signed Brad Hawpe to a one-year deal to replace Adrian Gonzalez.

Hawpe’s offense fell off a cliff in 2010 at the age of 31. He injured his left quadriceps early in the season, and I wonder how much that contributed to his trouble. He was always a pretty good road hitter, so if he bounces back, the Padres will look pretty good at first. If he doesn’t, they’re only into him for one year and with luck Kyle Blanks will be ready to take over in 2012.