Late Homers, Peavy Lead Padres To Win

The beginning of the four game showdown between the top two teams in the NL West did not disappoint. The Padres ace, and leading Cy Young candidate, Jake Peavy threw 7 solid innings allowing the Dbacks to score 1 run (solo shot by Eric Byrnes in the 6th) and fanning 11. Peavy moved his record to 15-5 in part thanks to a 2 out 2 run blast of the bat of Geoff Blum. An insurance run was provided in the 8th, again with 2 outs Milton Bradley found the Petco Porch to his liking as he drove a solo shot just over the yellow line, Bradley's tater delivered the last run of the 3-1 victory. Heath Bell was impressive in the 8th and Hoffman closed the door on Arizona after allowing the tying runs to reach base, it was Trevor's 34th save of the year.

Although Josh Bard did not record a hit he did put together a quality at bat that lead to the 2 out walk in front of Geoff Blum's HR. Hoffman continues to struggle a bit, although he did end his streak of allowing a run. The Friars cut into the DBacks lead, which is now at 2; San Diego also maintained their 3 game lead in the wild card over the Phils while gaining ground on Colorado, and Atlanta.

NOTES

With Jake Peavy's 1st inning strikeout he surpasses Andy Benes as the franchises all time strike out leader.

Chris Young threw a bullpen session on Monday and was encouraged by how he felt and hopes to return to the rotation on Thursday or Friday.

The Padres optioned Sunday's starter Tim Stauffer back to Triple - A Portland and recalled lefty Joe Thatcher.