Friars Flapjacks…It’s Okay That The Energy Is Running Down

The Padres took one on the chin last night against the Dodgers. The Boys In Blue increased their lead in the NL West, and are en route to most likely, at least an NLCS appearance later this Fall. It’s okay. Sure, the Padres have the second best record in the National League since the All-Star break, but this team is not much better than the one who was arguably one of the worst offensive teams in the past half century.

Mandatory Credit: Billy Brost

There is quite a bit to be excited about if you’re a Padres fan. There is a new GM in A.J. Preller, and he just brought in one of the most respected scouts in the game by hiring Don Welke away from the Texas Rangers. New players such as Yangervis Solarte, and Rymer Liriano have infused the team with some much-needed energy. Much like a sugar rush, the energy will and is starting to wear off. The Cardinals, who the Padres man-handled at Petco Park a couple weeks ago, handed the Friars three losses in four days.

Gone are Chase Headley, Huston Street, and Chris Denorfia. Most likely gone somehow, some way, should or could be Carlos Quentin, Yonder Alonso, Cameron Maybin, Will Venable, Joaquin Benoit and Ian Kennedy. The Padres have a plethora of pitching, and need some bats. You deal from your strength. It’s okay that the Cardinals righted the ship and punched the Padres’ ticket, and it’s okay that the Dodgers beat up Ian Kennedy and the boys last night. They will get better. Even if the Padres nose-dive the rest of the way, and compete with the Colorado Rockies for basement status in the NL West, they’re on the right track.

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They have a strong farm system that will only get better with Preller delving into the International Free Agent market. They’ll have some money to spend in free agency this winter. They have plenty of farmhands and major league-ready pieces to deal for lineup pieces. Every team goes through cycles and has to rebuild. The Padres have a strong foundation with their pitching staff. Sooner rather than later, they’ll be competing for a postseason spot in the National League playoffs. Just feel thankful that you’re currently a Padres’ fan, and that you’ll be along for the ride. It makes the success that much sweeter when it comes.

Keep the Faith.