Aaron Baddeley was a late addition Friday to a John Deere Classic field that tournament director Clair Peterson said is the best yet to tee it up at TPC Deere Run.

"Better than '03 even," he said, referencing a September event that included eventual winner Vijay Singh. "I really do (believe that)."

Peterson pointed to the presence of defending champion Kenny Perry and two-time '09 winner Zach Johnson, who rank first and second in the FedEx Cup standings. Also bound for Silvis, Ill., next week is Steve Stricker, who is fifth in the standings and ranked seventh in the world.

Then there is recent U.S. Open winner Lucas Glover, one of five Q-C-bound players who have finished first or second in the year's first two major championships.

The field accounts for 10 wins on the PGA Tour this year and includes 14 winners of major championships.

"It's very, very strong top-to-bottom," he said of the 156-man field that will chase a $4.3 million purse starting Thursday.

Peterson said the professional golfers will find a golf course in prime condition.

Now, he said, "We just need people to fill the place."

Also joining the field late were Steve Marino, Matt Kuchar and Brett Quigley. Chris DiMarco has withdrawn.

Peterson expects 25 or more players will board the JDC charter to the British Open at the conclusion of play on July 12.