Did you know the Padres are only two-and-a-half games out of first place?
That’s right. As of Thursday evening that is NOT a typo.
For a team that’s been shut out 8 times already this year, a 3-0 Padres victory over the Brewers was an encouraging sign. Especially since the team was coming off a doubleheader sweep of the NL Central-leading Cubs.
James Shields struck out 9 batters over 7 scoreless innings, and Melvin Upton Junior hit a solo homer to help San Diego win its 3rd straight contest in less than 48 hours.
Left-handed reliever Ryan Buchter also recorded his first career save in the majors as he worked a perfect 9th. Buchter has a remarkable 0.54 ERA in 17 appearances this season.
Closer Fernando Rodney had the night off after picking up 2 saves against the Cubs on Wednesday.
San Diego will try to make it 4 in a row when Christian Friedrich takes the mound Friday against Milwaukee starter Junior Guerra.
