Padres call up hot-hitting Schimpf from Triple-A

SAN DIEGO (AP) The San Diego Padres have called up hot-hitting utility man Ryan Schimpf from Triple-A El Paso and will start him at third base Tuesday night against the Marlins.

This is Schimpf's first trip to the majors. The 28-year-old is hitting .355 with 15 home runs and 48 RBIs with the Chihuahuas and has played all four infield positions plus left and right field.

Schimpf is batting sixth for the Padres against Miami. Manager Andy Green says ''Schimpf has earned the right to be here'' and that he's ''excited to see him.''

Catcher Hector Sanchez was designated for assignment.