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Ok. Having blown one six-run lead already, and come within about six inches of seeing another implode on us this series, I think it would probably be best if we came right out of the gate playing dreadful baseball, fell behind early and saw Augie Ojeda pitching the last three innings. It would certainly be easier on my nerves, because if we have a six-run lead after seven innings again, I'm not sure my heart could stand it.
Of course, the chances of us having a six-run lead are slim to none: after a wobbly start to the season, Peavy is now beginning to roll, with a May ERA of 1.50, and 47 strikeouts in 36 innings. Opponents are batting .144 off him this month. And you wonder why we want to see him playing in the other league. That said, Chase Field does not agree with Peavy - his career ERA here is 5.78 in thirteen starts, and we already documented how San Diego pitchers' numbers are heavily skewed between playing at home and on the road. Peavy is no different: at home, he's been sub-three this year; on the road, a less-stellar 4.32.
On our end, we go with Billy Buckner, who astonished everyone with seven innings of one-run ball up in Oakland. That was certainly a starting performance, from someone whose relief performance left a lot to be desired. He was lucky - a BABIP of .182 is pretty unsustainable - but he kept the ball down, and (mostly) in the park. Obviously, he'll need to be on his best form tonight, but if he can give the D-backs a quality start, that would be more than we should be happy with, given he's a replacement for a spot starter.
Just a note on the bullpen. I see the Dodgers came into the ninth five runs up against the Rockies this afternoon, and ended up a single away from blowing it all. Every bullpen will have its bad day - you just hope that when they happen, they don't affect the outcome of the game. And, in the end result, they didn't last night., gut-wrenching though it was But if Buckner can go seven strong innings again, I don't think any of us would object! Azreous on the recap, so something interesting is almost assured...
Lineup
- Parra - CF
- Montero - C
- Upton - RF
- Drew - SS
- Reynolds - 3B
- Tracy - 1B
- Byrnes - LF
- Roberts - 2B
- Buckner - P