Following yet another tie game, our Padres are hitting the road this afternoon to face the Rangers in Surprise.
Matt Wisler will get the ball against Texas in his fifth Spring outing. In his four prior appearances, the righty tossed 7 2/3 innings, allowing three earned runs on seven hits while striking out three batters. Today will be his first start, however, and he'll have a lot more on the line this time out. Originally scheduled to make the start today was Josh Johnson, but as we learned yesterday he is heading to the DL and will be out for at least 4-5 weeks. The highly-ranked prospect will now get a chance to make a case for himself to take Johnson's vacated spot in the rotation when the season starts in seven (!!!!!!!!) days.
Similarly, Rangers starter for this afternoon is also trying to earn himself a spot in his team's rotation. Joe Saunders will take the mound opposite Wisler. He's had two prior outings (one start) this Spring, pitching seven total innings and surrendering six runs (five earned) on ten hits and a walk. He has, however, also collected eight strikeouts going into Sunday's matchup.
Watch/Listen
The game will be available on The Mighty 1090, Gameday Audio, and AtBat for your listening pleasure. First pitch is set for 1:05.