Cesar Vargas takes mound against Alex Wood and the Dodgers

Melvin Upton, Jr., provided some fireworks in walkoff fashion after last night's win against the hated Dodgers. Cesar Vargas will take the mound in yet another audition for a starting rotation spot against the Dodgers.

Vargas (0-2, 3.55 ERA) is essentially part of a tryout cast since both Tyson Ross and most recently Andrew Cashner have landed on the disabled list. Among those in contention for the rotation including Vargas are Christian Friedrich (who did not have his best showing last night) and even Colin Rea (who has struggled recently). Cesar could benefit from some home cooking (1.64 ERA at Petco) and will vie for his first win and possibly a more permanent rotation spot once Cashner returns from his DL stint.

Pitching opposite Vargas is Alex Wood, who has not won in any of his last 6 starts despite a season-low ERA (4.17). Against the Padres, Wood boasts a 2-1 record and a 2.33 ERA. Look for Matt Kemp (5-9 against) and last night's hero Melvin Upton, Jr. (3-6 against) to do damage against the left-hander.

It remains to be seen if the Padres can bounce back after an emotional win and continue to take it to a reeling Dodgers team that has lost three straight and five of their last six games. The Pads have only batted .172 as a team over their past five games. Let's hope our boys can take advantage and secure a series win against our rivals from LA.

Tonight's contest is another late start at 7:10 Left Coast Time, but it's a weekend game. Enjoy a social sparkler and root the Pads on to BEAT LA.

Game Time: 7:10 PT
TV: Fox Sports San Diego, FSSD Deportes (Spanish)
Radio: The Mighty 1090, La Poderosa 860 (Spanish)