Game Thread #103: Brewers (51-51) at Padres (41-62)

Tonight, the Brewers open their annual six game road trip to San Diego and Los Angeles. Last August, the Brewers went 3-3 on this road trip en route to their first playoff appearance in 26 years. Can they get off to a good start on the 2009 version of this trip? Follow the jump for tonight's starting matchup, lineup and conversation on tonight's game!

Chad Gaudin (4-9, 4.57) was probably the best pitcher released at the end of spring training. Released by the Cubs on April 5, Gaudin was signed by the Padres on April 12, and made his debut with the major league team on April 28. Gaudin has lost four straight decisions, but has pitched very well over his last four starts, posting a 2.19 ERA in 24.2 innings.

Meanwhile, Braden Looper (9-5, 4.79) will open the road trip for the Brewers. Pitching in a pitchers' park like Petco could really help Looper, who is second in the NL with 24 home runs allowed in 2009. Looper picked up his fifth loss his last time out, allowing five earned runs in six innings, but has posted a 3.93 ERA while going 4-1 in his last six starts.

Again, Casey McGehee and his .895 OPS are sitting on the bench while Craig Counsell and his .801 OPS are in there: (h/t JS)

2B Felipe Lopez
3B Craig Counsell
LF Ryan Braun
1B Prince Fielder
RF Corey Hart
CF Mike Cameron
SS J.J. Hardy
C Jason Kendall
RHP Braden Looper

And in the bullpen:

Todd Coffey pitched an inning (15 pitches) yesterday, and also pitched on Wednesday.
Mitch Stetter pitched one inning (17 pitches) last night.
Trevor Hoffman pitched an inning on Wednesday.
Tim Dillard has not pitched since Tuesday.
Mark DiFelice has not pitched since Tuesday.R.J. Swindle has not pitched since Monday.
Chris Smith has not pitched since Monday.

Enjoy the game!