Padres Enjoy Fruits of Labor Day

Sep 2, 2013; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Padres starting pitcher

(22) throws during the first inning against the San Francisco Giants at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

The San Diego Padres defeated the San Francisco Giants at Petco Park on Labor Day, by a final score of 4 to 1.   The Padres managed to score 4 runs off only 4 hits and 4 walks.  The difference today was hitting with runners on base.  The Padres were out hit by the Giants, but came through twice in the clutch and was the difference in this game.  It was great to see the Padres perform well during the holiday and at home.

Padres starter Ian Kennedy continues to progress at home and earns the win after completing 6 innings with only 1 earned run given up.  Kennedy struck out 7, and also gave up 5 hits and 2 walks while throwing a mix of 63.7 % fastballs (59.6% 2-seam / 7.7% 4-seam), 17.3% change-ups, 12.5% curveballs, and 2.9% cutters.  Kennedy’s velo ranged between 87 – 92 mpg for his fastballs and it was interesting to see that much variation.  It is likely a product of the movement potential on Kennedy’s balls.  With the win, Kennedy is now 3 – 1 with San Diego, and its clear he enjoys the new environment including the spacious park.  In a comparison with his Arizona numbers, Kennedy has improved his ERA by 1.19 and his WHIP by 0.05.  Although he has room to improve, I feel that the change in scenery will do wonders for Kennedy’s comfort zone.  He could become a rotation fixture for years to come.

As for the Padres hitters, nothing spectacular for the day, and the hitters did just enough to win.  Credit Nick Hundley with a big home run and Cedeno for his 2 hits and an RBI and run scored.  Overall a great win on a beautiful day.  Great work Padres.