“You always understand when you leave talented players unprotected*there’s a chance they can get selected,” Stearns said. “Miguel is a talented player. We felt as though he’s a long way from the major leagues.
“He’s never pitched above the Midwest League. It’s very unusual for guys to be able to make that jump. It’s certainly possible that Miguel is the exception to that rule. The Padres obviously saw something they like about him.
“We have to be prepared for that but it would be the exception to the norm if someone is able to make that jump successfully and contribute at the major-league level.”