Padres Week in Review: April 20-26th

The young Astros are making a push for winning now in the crowded AL West. Mandatory Credit: Bob Stanton-USA TODAY Sports

Week Ahead

The Padres have their first inter-league match-up of the year welcoming the streaking Houston Astros to Petco Park Monday through Wednesday this week. The Astros sit in first place in the American League alongside the powerhouse Angels, A’s, and trendy pre-season favorite Seattle Mariners with a record of 11-7. Their pitching staff, led by Dallas Keuchel and Colin McHugh has posted a 3.18 ERA while 2014 AL batting champion Jose Altuve has picked up where he left off. Keuchel in 4 starts has allowed just 2 runs for a 0.62 ERA. Former Padre Luke Gregorson has gotten 4 saves in 5 opportunities and Pat Neshek has accumulated 5 holds in the bullpen. They are a team that is an example of some homegrown success from drafting and carefully importing the right veterans like Dexter Fowler and former Cubs third baseman Luis Valbuena who has 5 home runs.

After the Astros come the Rockies come to town fresh off their 4 games series this week with the Padres. The two teams now have an idea of what the other has but the series provided such contrasting games it will interesting to see who emerges victorious in this quick three game set. After the two series here the Padres embark on a 9 game road trip taking them to San Francisco, Arizona, and two games in Seattle before coming back to San Diego.

Current Record: 11-9

Current Standings: 1 GB behind 1st place LA, tied with the Rockies

Weekly Prediction: 5-1. I see the Padres shaking off the Dodgers series and continuing the hot hitting. I think their veteran pitchers will be able to slow down the young Astros pitchers for a 2-1 series win and I see them sweeping Colorado this time around in San Diego.

Next: Upton's Big Night Spoiled by Loss