PADRES' WIN STREAK SNAPPED IN CHRIS YOUNG'S RETURN

Even though the Padres were shutout by Arizona last night, fans had to be excited about the return of Chris Young after a nine-week layoff. While surrendering only two hits and racking up eight strikeouts through five innings of work, the 6-foot-10 right-hander showed no ill-effects from being hit on the face by Albert Pujols in May. It's safe to say that CY's return was a total success.

Unfortunately, his teammates managed only two hits off of LPH Doug Davis, who had a no-hitter until Brian Giles lined a single into center field in the seventh. Sure, with all of his pitches working for him, Davis was brilliant last night. However, he was aided by the Padre hitters, who, at times, appeared to be flailing at pitches out of the strike zone.

To make room for Young, the Padres designated Chip Ambres for assignment. Given Ambres' performance, that move came as no surprise. However, as of this morning they're carrying twelve pitchers. With the trading deadline rapidly approaching, there is still much speculation that a Padre pitcher will be traded. That would free-up a roster spot for another position player, which very well could be Portland outfielder Peter Ciofrone, who's hitting .330 with eleven HRs and has a 26-game hitting streak.

Tonight it's Cha Seung Baek (3-5, 5.06 ERA) vs. Dan Haren (10-5, 2.56 ERA).

MARK TEIXEIRA AN ANGEL

Kudos the Angels for pulling off the deal for Mark Teixeira. As if they weren't already good enough to win it all, Teixeira gives them another solid bat in their lineup and is an excellent first-baseman. And, I don't believe they acquired him as a two-month rent-a-player, either. Don't be surprised if they sign him to a long-term deal in the off-season.

MANNY RAMIREZ TO THE DODGERS?

Although unlikely to happen, there's been talk about the Dodgers acquiring Ramirez from Boston. Word is that the Sox want a package of players-- including outfielder Matt Kemp, who's hitting .294 with 12 HRs. Bad move, Dodgers. If you want Manny, wait until Boston makes him a free agent at the end of this season.

Speaking of the Dodgers, I hear that they are not interested in Greg Maddux. That's good news to me...I want him to stay in San Diego.