Carlos Quentin (knee) took batting practice on Monday. Quentin had hit in the indoor cages for the previous five days, but this was the first time he's hit on the field. "It's a good first step for him," said Padres manager Bud Black. "When this happens, then it's a good sign for Carlos and the club." Quentin still needs to do some running and increase the intensity of his workouts before he'll be cleared for a rehab assignment. It seems unlikely that he'll be ready before the end of April.