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If there’s one thing Phoenix sports fans are great at, it’s making excuses for our teams’ poor play. We’re all too happy to believe in the Boogeyman, whether he’s described as a substandard stadium, injuries, or – in the case of the Arizona Diamondbacks – a low payroll.
The San Diego Padres are a good model for fans looking for hope instead of excuses. The Padres, who open up a three-game series with the D-backs are a no-frills team that’s managed to fight their way into a late-season pennant chase. The boys from the 619 have pulled it off thanks to hustle and great pitching. Just about the only thing lower than their payroll is their league-leading ERA.
Fri., Aug. 6, 6:40 p.m.; Sat., Aug. 7, 5:10 p.m.; Sun., Aug. 8, 1:10 p.m., 2010