Trevor Hoffman has chosen to return to the Padres. Although the Cleveland Indians made a push for San Diego's longtime relief ace, Hoffman today came to contractual terms with the Padres, his employer since June 1993. Hoffman, 38, is bound to the Padres for two more seasons, with an option for a third year ? all but ensuring that if he becomes the majors' all-time saves leader, he'll do it as a Padre. Last year, Hoffman earned 43 saves in 46 chances, including a stretch of 39 in a row. He needs 43 saves to pass Lee Smith, the major league career leader. Hoffman's return increases the chances that the Padres will trade set-up reliever Akinori Otsuka, the subject of trade talks with several clubs.