SAN DIEGO PADRES (40-59, 5TH PLACE, NL WEST)
BIG PICTURE
The Padres are headed for their 15th losing season in the 20 years since San Diegans voted to fund a new ballpark, largely with public money. In that span, the team has won no playoff series or a playoff game at home. The farm system is well-regarded, but the franchise MVP might be the combination of spiffy ballpark and San Diego’s attractions as a tourist city. Attendance has held steady.
BEST PERFORMANCE
Right-handed reliever Kirby Yates,
31, has allowed a run only four times in 39 appearances and has 48 strikeouts in 372⁄3 innings.
BIGGEST SURPRISE
Christian Villanueva, a 27-year-old rookie, has 19 home runs, 15 of them coming before the end of May.
BIGGEST DISAPPOINTMENT
Injuries limited right fielder Wil Myers to 10 games before June 21. He said he might have bulked up too much last offseason in anticipation of moving from first base to the outfield to make room for newcomer Eric Hosmer.
TRADE-DEADLINE FORECAST
Contenders will inquire about Yates and closer Brad Hand, who has 24 saves, in addition to right-handed starter
Tyson Ross. The Padres will trade at least one pitcher. Developing relievers into standouts is a franchise strength, so the drop-off shouldn’t be overly concerning.
KEY SERIES
vs. Arizona Diamondbacks July 27-29
Tom Krasovic