Visits: 11

We’ve come a LONG WAY, my friar faithful. But, there’s still one major road block for the San Diego Padres. And it’s only a couple hours north. The damn Los Angeles Dodgers. I don’t know about you guys – but I circle every series against LA. I block off my schedule during game time. I buy all of the chips and dip. But, nearly every time – I end up disappointed.

Now, it’s safe to say that the Dodgers aren’t just our rival – they’re the best team in baseball. But still, with a lineup bolstered with A-list talent and reliable fillers, we should take a series here & there!

So what’s missing? What’s going on?

Reason # 1: Pitching

Again, there’s no doubt that we’ve improved since the days of James Shields, Clayton Richards, or Edinson Volquez being our ace. Still, it’s the inconsistencies that are killing us. Guys like Blake Snell, Sean Manaea, and Mike Clevinger are the number one reason. Respectively, they’re all solid pitchers – CY Young award winners, even! Yet these slingers are so hot and cold, it’s like picking numbers out of a hat. You never know which version of them you’ll get! Take Manaea, for example – he’ll strike out 11 the same night as he gives up 5. Don’t get me started with Josh Hader! Then, look at guys like Dustin May, Tony Gonsolin, and Julio Urias. You know what you’re gonna get – a quality start.

Reason # 2: Bottom of the Line-up

More specifically, 7 through 9. For the Pads, this will be any combination of Kim, Alfaro, Nola, Azocar, Campuisano, or Grisham. Sure, all of these guys have shown flashes, and do – but collectively, you’re looking at about a sub .200 lineup. Generally speaking, they’re all solid players; but does that mean I trust them with 2 outs? Oh, heavens, no. Now, look at L.A. Chris Taylor. Gavin Lux. Joey Gallo. Trayce Thompson. Cody fricking Bellinger! On any given night, there are maybe 1-2 weak points in the Dodgers line up. Whereas, in San Diego – there’s about 3-4. Not good. 

Reason # 3: Big Brother Syndrome

Yup, I said it. If you prefer, I can put it how Aaron Rodgers said it to the Bears, “I own you”. As psychological, pseudo-science as this may seem… it’s true. It pains my fingers to type this, but it is. There’s something in the air when these two teams play. It’s first-inning hope from the Padres, and first-inning scoring from the Dodgers. Followed by mid-game dejection. Capped off by even more confidence from the Blue. It’s a vicious cycle that the San Diego Padres have gotten trapped in. And I can’t stand it. And yet still, there’s some lingering hope – deep down inside. Which is why, still, I tune into every match. Just like how we can’t wait to go play against our Big Brother. Maybe this will be the time the king is de-throned. Probably not. But just maybe…

However, I try to be “half glass full”, so here’s some positive perspectives of seeings this! 

a) We may not even see them in the playoffs. Despite their consistent dominance, there have been many times where the Dodgers have blown it in the playoffs. And, as is the case in all sports – nothing is guaranteed. Maybe the Dodgers get swept in their first series? Okay, maybe that’s downright delirious, but in all seriousness – they could lose! Stranger things have happened. 

b) The future is bright. And no, I’m not talking about our Farm System that we just dumped to get slumpin’ Soto. I’m talking about Trea Turner’s impending free agency. I’m talking about a potential regime change if the Dodgers bust this year. Plus, let’s look at the artist formerly known as the San Diego Chargers. The Chiefs used to be their Dodgers. And look at us now. We’re doing it!

To quote “Dumb and Dumber” – I guess you’re saying there’s a chance…