Preview: Padres Offense Looks To Continue Its Surge Saturday

Aug 1, 2014; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Padres shortstop

(2) is congratulated after scoring on a double by second baseman

(not pictured) during the third inning against the Atlanta Braves at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports

Keys To Padres Victory:

Braves pitcher Ervin Santana struck out eleven Padres’ hitters last Monday in route to 2-o win, so here are the keys to victory:

Ian Kennedy: 

How is Kennedy going to bounce back from the injury sustained in his last start in Chicago? The right-hander has not lost since June 25, so the Padres will need a strong outing from him before turning the ball over to the bullpen.  Since the trade of Huston Street, the Padres bullpen continues to shine and closer Joaquin Benoit has been solid since taking over.

Baserunners: 

The Padres were unable to get on base the last time they faced Santana, and it tends to be a trend with this team to tail-off after a big offensive night. Padres shortstop Everth Cabrera came alive last night going 4-5, so the Padres need him to get on base. In addition, the Padres will also have to show plate discipline and get Santana’s pitch count up to give themselves opportunities.