Game 73 Preview: Jesse Hahn Looks To Build On Previous Start

Jun 14, 2014; New York, NY, USA; San Diego Padres starting pitcher Jesse Hahn (45) pitches during the first inning against the New York Mets at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY SportsSan Diego Padre

After notching both his first big league victory and his first base knock, rookie hurler Jesse Hahn returns to the mound this afternoon to take on the Seattle Mariners. The day after the Padres paid tribute to the late, great Tony Gwynn, and brought home a much-needed victory, the Friars will attempt to get their season on track by winning back-to-back contests.

The Padres had ace Andrew Cashner face-off against Seattle’s “King” Felix Hernandez, and the pitcher’s duel did not disappoint. The Padres were able to score a single run against the former Cy Young winner, and tacked on the winning run against the M’s bullpen.

The loss of Gwynn has weighed on the minds and hearts of San Diegans everywhere, and the Padres have struggled throughout the month of June as well. Posting a record of 12-16, and averaging only 1.8 runs per game, ownership is ready to move in another direction. As reported earlier today by Friars On Base, several prominent Padres’ players are now available via the trade market. The team suffered another blow, as they were forced to put first baseman Yonder Alonso on the 15-day disabled list with left wrist tendinitis. The Padres recalled outfielder Jake Goebbert to replace Alonso. Goebbert was acquired from the Oakland Athletics in a deal that sent Kyle Blanks to the Bay Area. With Alonso hitting the DL, look for Tommy Medica to take over at first base.

Hahn for his part, is looking to build on his last outing against the New York Mets, in which he tossed 6 innings, allowing only 1 hit, as the Padres won 5-0. Hahn also drove in a run to help his own cause. Opposing Hahn and the Padres is Erasmo Ramirez. While his season ERA isn’t impressive (5.27), he hasn’t allowed an earned run in consecutive starts this season. Ramirez previously was in the starting rotation when the M’s were hit with injuries to start the 2014 season.

Did You Know?

-As per Baseball Reference, Jesse Hahn is only the ninth starting pitcher in National League history to toss six shutout innings of one-hit ball in his first two career starts at the big league level.

-One other Padres’ hurler accomplished this feat prior to Hahn, Jimmy Jones of the ’86 team against the Houston Astros on September 21st, 1986.

Keep The Faith.