Padres Look To Even Series Against Miami

Apr 8, 2014; Cleveland, OH, USA; San Diego Padres relief pitcher Tyson Ross (38) pitches during the first inning against the Cleveland Indians at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports

The Padres are looking for Tyson Ross (3-3, 3.30 ERA) to have a strong pitching performance, which would allow them to put yesterday’s tough loss behind them. Tonight will be Ross’ first career start (second appearance) against the Marlins. However, that doesn’t mean that there is no history between he and the Marlins’ lineup. Garrett Jones is 0-for-3 with one strikeout; whereas, Jeff Mathis is 1-for-1 with a home run. Other than Marcell Ozuna, in addition to the aforementioned players, this will be the first time Ross has faced any of the Marlins’ batting order.

Seth Smith continued his hot streak at the plate registering both a hit and a walk in yesterday’s loss. He owns a 5-game hitting streak. In order to extend his hitting streak to 6 games Smith will need to earn his first career hit off of Marlins’ starter Jose Fernandez (4-1, 1.74 ERA). Smith is lifetime 0-for-3 against Fernandez. Fernandez is one of the games best young pitchers since making his season debut last season.

Last night’s game marked the Padres’ 25th contest decided by 2 runs or less on the season. Their record in these games is 13-12. The Padres have had one of the toughest schedules to begin the season. 27 of their 36 games have been against teams with a .500 record or better. Tonight’s game will be no different.

Keep the Faith.

Tidbits

• Last night Ian Kennedy became the third pitcher in franchise history to record 10 or more strikeouts and hit a home run in the same game.
• The Padres’ pitching staff recorded 17 strikeouts last night, the most in a game since July 6, 2011 against San Francisco.
• Mr. Padre, Tony Gwynn, turns 54 today. Happy Birthday Tony!