Editing David Wells (section)

===Second stint with the San Diego Padres (2006–2007)===
On August 31, 2006, with the Red Sox postseason chances fading, Wells' wish of finishing his career playing for a West Coast team and a playoff contender was granted when he was traded back to the [[San Diego Padres|Padres]] for top catching prospect [[George Kottaras]].

Following the 2006 season, Wells filed for free agency. For players who are already planning on retiring, this is a customary move in case one changes his mind. Wells' agent had stated the pitcher will keep his options open but his physical condition will play a large part in making the final decision whether or not to return for another season.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.espn.com/mlb/news/story?id=2647290|title=Wells keeps options open; will declare for free agency|date=November 2, 2006|website=ESPN.com}}</ref> Eventually, Wells decided to stay with the Padres, agreeing in principle on a one-year deal worth $3 million in base salary with a possible $4 million more in incentives.

On March 18, 2007, the media revealed that Wells has been diagnosed with Type 2 [[diabetes]]. This form of diabetes is more closely associated with lifestyle factors, such as diet, but the condition of people with a genetic disposition for diabetes can be exacerbated with chronic high [[blood sugar]], as insulin resistance can be an adaptation of insulin in the wake of too-high blood sugar over time.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.espn.com/mlb/news/story?id=2804147|title=Padres' Wells has diabetes but vows to 'beat it'|date=March 19, 2007|website=ESPN.com}}</ref>

On August 8, the Padres announced they would cut ties with Wells when [[Chris Young (pitcher)|Chris Young]] was ready to come off the disabled list.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.espn.com/mlb/news/story?id=2966580|title=Career over? 'Boomer' Wells, Pads set to cut ties|date=August 8, 2007|website=ESPN.com}}</ref>