Blair named Padres bullpen coach

Full Count

The TinCaps had a three-run rally in the top of the ninth inning Sunday, but it wasn't enough as they lost 7-5 to the Lake County Captains in Eastlake, Ohio.Sunday

Not enough offense in TinCaps' loss

Ruben Mejia and Bryan Rodriguez did well on the mound for the TinCaps, but it was squandered in a 3-2 loss to the Lake County Captains in Eastlake, Ohio, on Saturday.Saturday

TinCaps win at Lake County

The TinCaps opened a four-game series at the Lake County Captains with a 4-3 win at Classic Park in Eastlake, Ohio.Friday

Willie Blair has been named the bullpen coach of the San Diego Padres. Blair spent the past two seasons as the pitching coach for the TinCaps.

"We're excited to have Willie join our coaching staff," Padres manager Bud Black said in a statement. "He brings a strong fundamental knowledge of pitching to our club that will show in his teachings."

Pitching was a strength for Fort Wayne in 2012. The TinCaps had a staff ERA of 3.59 on the way to reaching the Midwest League championship series. He was in line to return to Fort Wayne for a third season in 2013 before earning the promotion. Fort Wayne will announce its new pitching coach at a later date.