Padres Begin Four-Game Series Against Braves

Two days ago, Jeff Francoeur recorded his first major league hit in eleven months. Tonight as the Padres begin a four-game series against the Atlanta Braves, Francoeur will return to where it all began. Francoeur went to high school in the Atlanta area, and in 2005 burst on the scene and was dubbed “The Natural” by Sports Illustrated.

The Padres recalled Jesse Hahn (5-2, 2.21 ERA), who will be making his first start since before the All-Star Break. Hahn has pitched brilliant this season, since jumping from Double-A to the Majors in early June. Except for his first start, Hahn has pitched at least 5 innings, and has only allowed 6 runs, while pitching a combined 37 innings and averaging 7 strikeouts per start. With both Hahn and Alex Torres pitching so well, it looks like the Padres are on the winning end of the Logan Forsythe trade. At least for this season.

The Atlanta Braves counter with Alex Wood (7-7, 3.24 ERA). Wood pitched well in his last start against Philadelphia, pitching 6 innings, allowing only 1 run, and striking out eight. It looks like tonight’s game will lead to a solid pitcher’s duel. Not that the Padres’ offense needs a good to pitcher to keep them from hitting.

First pitch is at 4:35 pm PDT.

Friar Facts:

–          To make room for Hahn, Jace Peterson was optioned to the Triple-A club following last night’s game

–          After this series with the Braves, the Padres will return to San Diego for a six-game home stand

Tonight’s Starting Lineup For the Padres:

Tonight’s starting lineup against the Atlanta Braves. Mandatory Credit: Friarwire