Poached by the Padres

After a winter of negotiations, rumors and an almost infinite waiting period, the Padres finally landed their #1 free agent target. Off a career-best season, 1st baseman Eric Hosmer leaves Kansas City for San Diego for what's billed as an eight-year contract.
But who is he? Is he a smooth fielding 1st baseman who averaged 25 homers and 99 RBI the last two years? Or is he something less, based on some of his earlier work?
And is the contract really eight years? Reports say after five years at $20 million per season, Hosmer will be 33 and have an opt-out. That puts the pressure on him to produce -- or be locked into three remaining years at a loss less money ($13 mm per).
Finally, will Hosmer help turn the Padres into contenders? Does he help San Diego meaningfully cut the gap between their basically young and promising club and the powerhouse Dodgers and veteran Giants? And will be provide the buzz the Padres need to raise their attendance from 18th out of the 30 major league teams?

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