Philadelphia Phillies vs San Diego Padres: Series Preview

The Philadelphia Phillies have struggled over the last few weeks. After starting the season with a National League leading 8-2 record through the first 10 games, the Phils have played less than .500 baseball since. The road doesn’t get any easier as they take on the National League West leading San Diego Padres in a 3 game set that starts Friday.

San Diego has surprised many baseball experts who made MLB predictions saying that they would finish 3rd in the West behind the Dodgers and San Francisco. Offensively they are average at best, but their pitching staff has been nothing short of spectacular. They have a Major League leading team earned run average of 2.97, and hold opposing batters to a .230 average. Their 418 strikeouts ranks 2nd just behind Tim Lincecum and the San Francisco Giants pitching staff. It’s hard to say if they can keep up this incredible pace, but if they do they may run away with the N.L. West title.

Jon Garland has been a pleasant surprise to the Padres as they aquired him over the off-season. Not too much was expected of him, but his 6-2 record and 2.15 ERA have made him the number 1 starter on the team. Clayton Richard has been a diamond in the rough for a few years, but is starting to come into his own this season. He out-dueled Johan Santana this week, and will be looked upon to hold down the fort when he takes the mound.

Phillies fans aren’t too worried yet, but with the Atlanta Braves looking like the Braves of the 90’s they may need to. Philadelphia is now 3 games back of Atlanta, and will need to get better production from their non-power hitters if they expect to stay in the race for the National League East title.

Tune in Friday night as Roy Halladay looks to start where he left off after his perfect game last week. Mat Latos is a formidable opposing pitcher that will make the Phils work hard for each hit. This series may not seem to significant this early in the year, but it could jump help the Phillies get back on track or keep the Padres rolling towards a division title.

Related posts:

1. Harang is Padres best chance to beat Phillies
2. Mariners host Padres in Interleague Battle
3. Padres Pennant Chase Contenders
4. AFC Divisional Playoff Preview: New York Jets v. San Diego Chargers
5. Rockies & Padres fight for Playoff Spot

Comments