On Friday, Oakland signed 11-year major-league veteran Todd Walker to a minor-league deal. The Padres waived the left-handed hitter Monday. He batted .278 last season, splitting time between the Cubs and San Diego. Manager Bob Geren has talked about how versatility is going to be important to his roster this season, and Walker can play first, second and third base. Walker's versatility was one reason assistant general manager David Forst gave for the signing.