Kevin Kouzmanoff: Hi everyone, this is Kevin Kouzmanoff. Let's get started.

albydere4u: I noticed on the walk-off win you hit the ball to the opposite field. Will you be hitting the ball more that way this season or are you more of a pull hitter?

Kouzmanoff: In that game they pitched me away, so I was looking to go with the pitch. This season, I'm just going to hit the ball where it's pitched. If it's inside, I'll pull it.

Jokersss: Did you play any other sports in college?

Kouzmanoff: Actually, I just played baseball in college. In high school, I wrestled, was on the golf team, played football one year and was on the diving team.

Stephy08: Is it ok for the fans to call you by the nickname Koozy?

Kouzmanoff: Koozy or Kooz is fine with me.

kylebarr: University of Nevada at Reno student here -- I was wondering what you think of your new manager?

Kouzmanoff: Bud Black is an awesome guy and manager. He's very knowledgeable about baseball.

robs1: Kevin, is your elbow ok?

Kouzmanoff: It's a lot better. It's day to day right now. I'm looking to get back in the lineup today or Friday at Dodger Stadium.

friarfire: How do you like PETCO Park so far?

Kouzmanoff: One of the best ballparks I've played in. The fans are great and very supportive. I'm happy to be in beautiful San Diego.

NathanAZ: How many starts do you expect to get this season? Do you think it will depend on your productivity?

Kouzmanoff: I would like to start every game this season, but it's not my call. If I put up the numbers I expect I can, I look to be an everyday player with the Padres.

nmsu15: How is the team chemistry this year, and what player/players have you become close to?

Kouzmanoff: It's very laid back in the clubhouse and we all get along great. I've become close with Mike Cameron, Russell Branyan, Khalil Greene, Brian Giles and many more.

kevtorres: Was your trade a surprise for you as it was for the San Diego fans?

Kouzmanoff: The trade was just as much a surprise to me as it was for the fans here. As time went on, I realized coming to San Diego was a great opportunity for my career. So far it's been everything I expected.

nmsu15: What was your major in college?

Kouzmanoff: Subatomic physics. Boring stuff, actually, studying protons and neutrons. Luckily, I found my career in baseball.

Travis35: Is third base your natural position, or was it a transition for you?

Kouzmanoff: Shortstop was my natural position. I moved to third in my first year of college.

Padre4Life: Who is the clubhouse clown?

Kouzmanoff: Brian Giles. Geoff Blum is a close second.

mstrelect: Do you think the starting pitching is strong enough to get the team past the first round of the playoffs this year?

Kouzmanoff: I think we have one of the best pitching staffs in the National League. I'm glad I'm on the Padres and don't have to face these guys.

Kouzmanoff: Hey, I've got to run in a few minutes, but have time for a few more questions.

beachclbb: Did you watch baseball while you were growing up?

Kouzmanoff: I did watch baseball growing up. I watched the Padres, actually. I grew up in Bonita and moved to Colorado in seventh grade. I have a lot good memories from watching the Padres and going to Jack Murphy Stadium.

padres760: Is San Diego a place you would like to spend your entire career?

Kouzmanoff: I really enjoy the atmosphere here in San Diego and could see myself playing here for many years to come.

Kouzmanoff: That's all the time I have today. Thanks for all the questions and sorry I couldn't get to all of them. See you at PETCO and thanks for the support! Kevin.