Padres Look to Even Series Against the Phils

Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports

Tonight the Padres play the second game of their current 8-game road trip. However the Padres will have a tough assignment against one of the best lefties in the game, Cole Hamels (2-3, 3.49 ERA). Hamels, who grew up minutes from Petco, has fared well against the Padres in his career. He has a career record of 8-2 with a 2.39 ERA. Only Cameron Maybin (.346) and Seth Smith (.333) have a career batting average higher than .240 when facing Hamels.

The Padres counter with Tyson Ross (6-5, 3.22 ERA) tonight.  Ross struggled during his last outing in Washington, pitching 5 ½ innings allowing 5 runs on 5 hits and 3 walks while striking out 7. Ross doesn’t have a long history against many in the Phillies lineup tonight. Only Marlon Byrd has more than 2 career at bats against Ross; He is 1-for-7.

The Padres will need to find their winning stroke if they look to stay out of the cellar. The Arizona Diamondbacks are only a 1/2 game back from taking over the fourth place spot in the division.

Friar Facts

–          The Padres’ minor leaguers had a lot of success during the month of May. Jake Bauers (Single-A) won hitter of the month, Adys Portillo (Double-A) won pitcher of the month, Mallex Smith (Single-A) won baserunner of the month, and Diego Goris (Single-A) won defensive player of the month. The Padres have a bright future.

–          Huston Street has been flawless this season, and is 18-for-18 on saves this season. His 18 saves are good enough for third place behind only Sergio Romo (20) and Francisco Rodriguez (19).