Tue, Jul 31, 2007 at 3:20pm

MACKOWIAK TO HELP PADS BENCH

The San Diego Padres acquired infielder Rob Mackowiak from the Chicago White Sox for minor-league pitcher Jon Link.

What does it give the San Diego Padres
With question marks at left field, second base and third base, Mackowiak gives the Padres exactly what they need because he can play well enough at any of those positions. One of the better super-sub types in the league, the veteran can provide a little left-handed pop off the bench, he runs reasonably well and can fill in for long stretches at just about any position on the field.

What does it give the Chicago White Sox
There was little Mackowiak could do for the struggling Sox for the rest of the season, so this was just the dumping of a veteran and his contract, which expires at the end of the season. In return they got a low-level relief prospect in Link. The 23-year-old righty is a little undersized and still in the low minors in his third year pro. On the plus side, he's enjoying his best year yet and has done a good job closing some games in High-A ball.

Fantasy impact

Player focus

Chicago White Sox

Jon Link P

San Diego Padres

Rob Mackowiak OF