Padres Start Final Homestand Against Phillies

Jun 12, 2014; Philadelphia, PA, USA; San Diego Padres catcher Yasmani Grandal (8) tags out Philadelphia Phillies first baseman John Mayberry Jr. (15) at home plate during the fourth inning of a game at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

The Padres (68-80) start their final homestand of the season against the last place Phillies (69-80). These two teams are in similar boats. They both came into the season with expectations that were not met. Both teams have some serious re-evaluating to do once September is over. Philadelphia is coming off of a series win against the Marlins at home. The Padres are coming off of a disappointing series and road trip, losing two out of three to the D-backs and going 2-7 on the trip.

The Phillies are relatively healthy. They are without veteran lefty Cliff Lee, who is lost for the season with an elbow injury. Jimmy Rollins is also hurting but it is likely we will see him in this 4-game series. He is day-to-day with a hamstring strain. The Padres are a little more banged up. They are without closer Joaquin Benoit, Blaine Boyer, Will Venable and possibly Abraham Almonte. They are all scheduled to return sometime soon but the timetable has not been determined.