Tim Sullivan of the Union-Tribune says that if the Padres want to remain in contention, they will likely need one more legitimate bat.

Sullivan says that while the team may be hoping for internal players to come around such as Kyle Blanks, Max Venable or Scott Hairston, the team may have to look at external options if they want to be competitive in the NL West.

A cost-efficient option might be Jermaine Dye.

“San Diego was one of the places Jermaine was excited about playing,” agent Bob Bry said Tuesday. “He continues to work out every morning and hits most days and is still waiting for an opportunity with a team that has a chance to advance to the playoffs. San Diego, seemingly, would be a good fit.”

There was talk between the Padres and Dye, but no offers were made.

Dye has been reluctant to sign with any time or for any price.

Dye was quoted in April saying, ”I’m not going to a bad team, and I’m not playing for $1.5 million.” He obviously wants to keep the ball in his court and will not accept any job for the sake of playing ball.

Other options for the Padres could be Carlos Lee from the Houston Astros or Jose Guillen or Ernie Smith from the Royals, but they both have large contracts that will not be attractive to the Padres unless their teams are willing to eat up most of the salary.