An inept offense has lost our Padres another series. Another great start by a San Diego pitcher was wasted last night as our Friars failed to get on the board for even one run to back Tyson Ross' seven-inning four-hit shutout performance.
Hopefully Eric Stults doesn't get the same treatment in the series finale this morning. But the lefty gets the second least run suppport (2.63) in the majors. He also hasn't had the best luck on the mound lately. Over his last four starts, he has posted an 8.53 ERA - third highest among qualified pitchers. He pitched the shortest outing of his career on Sunday, going just 2 1/3 innings while giving up a season-high six runs. In two career starts against the Phillies (both taking place last season), he went 0-0 while posting a 2.77 ERA.
Philadelphia's Kyle Kendrick hasn't been the most reliable pitcher either lately. He's recorded a 5.02 ERA over his last six starts. He'll be working on six days' rest today, which the Phillies hope will prove to be helpful when he takes the mound to go for the sweep. Kendrick is coming off a game in which he issued a series-high five walks while giving up six hits and four runs through seven innings of work. Our Padres' best chance will probably be to get to Kendrick early. The righty has opponents batting .382 off him in the first inning this season and .239 the rest of the time.
First pitch is set for 10:05 this morning. Come join us for breakfast and baseball to pass the time before World Cup madness starts.