The Padres, as you may have heard, have lost their last 10 games.  They are the holders of the second longest losing streak this season, the Pirates have the first, and they are struggling to hold onto the lead in the West division which they have held all season.  They have been the surprise team of the season.

So the question is, are the coming back to earth, or is this just a blip on the radar.  Is this inexperience in the playoff hunt?  Or is this just the averages showing us what is really there.  According to the Don Nocross piece, the team is pressing and playing tentatively.  Each guy may be afraid of making a mistake, and that is not the way to win.  You have to want the ball.  That’s what separates the winners from the also-rans.  And while I think this could just be a minor blip in the season- something that makes the story fun to watch as September rolls on- this could also be the moment when the Giants or the Rockies show they just want it more. The Giants are 1 game back.   The Rockies only 4 1/2 games out.  Both teams are are going to make the Padres show they want it.  And if they don’t, well, there will be a another winner in the NL West.