SCOTT LINNETT / Union-Tribune Chargers starting quarterback Philip Rivers, who underwent aggressive offseason rehab on his surgically repaired knee, chats on the sideline with third-string QB Charlie Whitehurst.

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On Jan. 20, 2008, Philip Rivers became the undisputed leader of the Chargers. If there had been doubts before then, they ended on a day when global warming somehow missed Foxborough, Mass. The Kid became The Man in the New England chill. The Chargers quarterback was unable to do enough to overcome the Patriots in the AFC Championship Game.

Luis Castillo, a player still growing into his potential, called it a beginning. The Chargers, too, hope it is just that in the grand scheme. Castillo yesterday became the first of the Chargers' high-profile players to sign a long-term extension since the team began its recent push to lock up a number of star players whose contracts are due to expire in the next few years.

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CINCINNATI – While the Padres were losing a lead last night in Ohio, General Manager Kevin Towers was at home taking no joy from trading pitcher Randy Wolf to Houston.

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LAS VEGAS – San Diego State is in the midst of negotiating a new lease with the city that would allow its football team to continue playing at Qualcomm Stadium for at least the next five years, even if the Chargers opt to leave San Diego.

CINCINNATI – The Padres, who began yesterday with the worst record in the majors and the highest payroll in franchise history, saved $1.75 million to $3.5 million when they traded pitcher Randy Wolf to the fifth-place Houston Astros for a Triple-A pitcher.