San Diego @ Arizona preview

Last Meeting ( Apr 22, 2018 ) San Diego 2, Arizona 4

The Arizona Diamondbacks are suffering through an unsuccessful homestand and hope to change their fortunes when they open a four-game series against the San Diego Padres on Thursday. The Diamondbacks are just 1-5 on the 10-game stretch after losing 8-4 to St. Louis on Wednesday.

Arizona has been outscored 34-18 on the homestand, allowing at least six runs in four of the setbacks. Diamondbacks star Paul Goldschmidt went 0-for-3 with two walks on Wednesday after being a scorching 7-for-11 with two homers and six RBIs over his previous three games. The Padres have lost three consecutive contests and 13 of their last 16 to fall 14 games below .500. Christian Villanueva has belted a team-best 17 homers after going deep to account for both runs during Wednesday's 4-2 loss to Oakland.

TV: 9:40 p.m. ET, FS San Diego, FS Arizona

PITCHING MATCHUP: Padres LH Eric Lauer (3-5, 5.08 ERA) vs. Diamondbacks RH Shelby Miller (0-2, 11.42)

Lauer lost to Pittsburgh in his last turn as he was battered for six runs - three earned - and nine hits over five innings. The 25-year-old rookie was solid in June, going 2-2 with a 2.76 ERA over six starts after entering the month with a 7.67 ERA. Lauer is 1-2 with a 5.09 ERA in seven turns on the road.

Miller is making his third start since returning from Tommy John surgery. The 27-year-old has been rocked for 11 runs and 15 hits - including two homers - over 8 2/3 innings while losing his first two outings. Miller is 2-2 with a 4.54 ERA in eight career appearances (seven starts) against the Padres.

WALK-OFFS

1. The Diamondbacks won two of three against the Padres from April 20-22 in the first series of the season between the National League West rivals.

2. San Diego LHP Brad Hand returned to the club Wednesday after missing one game while tending to an unknown family matter.

3. Arizona CF Jon Jay went 3-for-5 on Wednesday after going just 1-for-34 over his previous 10 contests.

PREDICTION: Diamondbacks 7, Padres 3