Just Hours Away From Cory Luebke's Debut

Good thing my man Cory Luebke is starting tonight in a must-win game against the Rockies.

Otherwise I might be worried.

In all seriousness, though, I think Bud and Jed set this up well, giving Cory his first major-league start at home, in the best pitcher's park in baseball. That fact alone should cover up at least a few mistakes caused by early-inning jitters. The timing of Cory's start also gives the other five Padres starters an extra day of rest, setting them up to finish strong over the remaining games of this critical 10-game homestand.

Another factor working in Cory's favor tonight: the Rockies hitters don't know him or his stuff. Sure, they have scouting reports, but none of them have stepped in against Cory in a major league setting. The element of surprise might be the trick to cool down the potent Rockies bats.

Must-see ballgame. Tonight. At Petco.