Game Preview: Padres Look To Win Series vs. Phillies

Even though the San Diego Padres might not be seeing October baseball in 2014, it doesn’t mean they can’t put their best foot forward, and try to win as many games as possible. The team had a brief offensive surge coming out of the All-Star break, only to see the bottom fall out of that, and they returned to one of the worst hitting teams in all of baseball. For once, they could be compared to the New York Yankees, who have had hitting issues of their own all season.

In tonight’s series finale of the four-game set between on the outside looking in teams, the Padres send a healthy and fresh Robbie Erlin (3-4, 4.89 ERA) to the bump. This is Erlin’s first start since May 17th and he is replacing Padres’ ace Tyson Ross, who is being skipped due to arm soreness during his last outing against the Arizona Diamondbacks. Erlin has pitched wonderfully at Petco Park, posting an ERA of 2.50 in 57 2/3 innings over his career. In 6 1/3 career innings against Philly, he has a 0-0 record, with an ERA of 2.84 and 6 Ks.

Kyle Kendrick opposes Erlin tonight for Philly. He’s looking for his 10th win of the season, to go along with an ERA of 4.72. Kendrick has had hot and cold streaks throughout the season, which shows in his record in 2014. Kendrick is a free agent at the end of the season, and many believe this will be his Swan Song in a Phillies uniform in front of the home crowd. As has been the case all season, the Padres need to jump on the righty early, as his 1st inning ERA of 9.00 make him ripe for the picking. Over his past three starts, Kendrick has pitched well, to the tune of a 2-1 record, with a 2.66 ERA and 18 Ks in 20 1/3 innings pitched. He’s also had sustained success against the Friars in his career, notching a 4-1 career mark, with an ERA of 3.86 in 30 1/3 innings. Cameron Maybin and Seth Smith are the only Padres’ hitters with more than 5 career plate appearances against Kendrick, so it’ll be a new look for both sides.

If the Padres can win tonight’s finale, they’ll have taken 3 of 4 from Philly, heading into the weekend. If Philly comes away with the W tonight, it’ll be a series split. First pitch is scheduled for 6:10 p.m. PDT.

Keep the Faith.