Rangers Fall Victim to Padres, Hitchcock

Now that it’s too late, the San Diego Padres are starting to get some consistent starting pitching.

The Padres have held opponents to three runs or fewer the last four games, winning three times. On Sunday, Sterling Hitchcock pitched six strong innings and the Padres defeated the Texas Rangers, 5-3.

“That’s our game,” San Diego Manager Bruce Bochy said. “That’s what we’ve got to do.”

Wally Joyner had three hits with two runs batted in and Ken Caminiti hit a bases-loaded single with two outs to highlight the four-run third inning as the Padres swept the two-game series.

The Padres improved to 7-7 in interleague play with two games left and Texas dropped to 8-6.

Hitchcock (10-8), who has won at least 10 games in three consecutive seasons, started the third-inning burst with a bloop single. He gave up three runs on seven hits in six innings, struck out four and walked one.

“Normally, when I throw that many fastballs I get killed,” Hitchcock said. “But I had a little extra on my fastball and not a whole lot else. I had some timely balls hit at people and some good defensive plays made behind me. A four-spot in the third inning doesn’t hurt, either.”

Hitchcock got off to an inauspicious start when Damon Buford, who finished with four hits, homered on the third pitch of the game.

“I thought it was a pretty good changeup and it gets hit for a homer,” Hitchcock said. “That sort of sent a message--uh-oh. A lot of times, though, that’s the only run you give up.”

Hitchcock gave up two more runs in the sixth.

Trevor Hoffman got three outs for his 32nd save.

John Burkett (7-11) was activated from the disabled list before the game, but failed for the sixth time to earn his 100th career victory. He gave up four runs, three earned, and eight hits in four innings.

“I just couldn’t get away with any mistakes here,” said Burkett, who hasn’t won since July 12 at Seattle. “These guys take advantage of them.”

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NEXT SERIES FOR DODGERS

WHO: Texas Rangers

WHERE: at Texas

WHEN:

Tuesday: 5:30 p.m.

Wednesday: 5:30 p.m.