Ramón Laureano is shorter this season. The Padres outfielder also might be better than ever

ANAHEIM, Calif. — Almost a month into this regular season, the San Diego Padres are again nipping at the heels of the Los Angeles Dodgers, perennial rulers of the National League West. It’s still April, of course. Keeping up with the two-time reigning World Series champions will require continued production from the Padres’ shortest hitter.Advertisement