Game Preview: Padres Return Home To Face Mariners

Jun 13, 2014; New York, NY, USA; San Diego Padres starting pitcher Andrew Cashner (34) pitches against the New York Mets during the first inning of a game at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

Andrew Cashner (2-6, 2.47 ERA) is still searching for his first win since coming off the disabled list. Tonight will be his third start back and his 12^th start of the season. Cashner took the loss in his last start allowing 4 runs, on 8 hits, and 2 walks, in 6 innings of work. Look for Cashner to be sharp tonight. Since June 11th of last season, Cashner has allowed two earned runs or less in 13 consecutive starts at Petco Park. During that span his home ERA is a stingy 1.44 ERA, second to only Jose Fernandez in that time.

However the Padres cannot win if they don’t hit. Which will be a tough assignment against Felix Hernandez (8-2, 2.29 ERA), one of the toughest right-handers in the game. Hernandez has been lights out, while holding opposing hitters to .219 batting average. A few Padres have had success against Hernandez (minimum 10 PA). Seth Smith (.316) and Everth Cabrera (.400) will look to get the offense going. Although with Cabrera in a deep slump has been moved down to eighth in the batting order.

The Padres enter the game with a 3-game losing streak despite all those games being against team below the .500 mark. It looks like the Padres are destined for another season in the cellar of the NL West.

First pitch is at 7:10 pm PDT.

Friar Facts:

–          Tonight is Andrew Cashner’s first ever appearance against the Seattle Mariniers.

–          Huston Street is one of two qualifying closers this season with a perfect save percentage.

–          The Padres are 6-10 in interleague play on the season.