Mat Latos injury was as unexpected as his quick success. He was the midst of an outstanding run. Latos (10-4, 2.45 ERA) is responsible to put San Diego (56-39) into first place in the NL West by strong pitching. Last year, Latos had 10 inconsistent starts. He has become one of the majors’ top young pitchers. In 106 2/3 innings, the 22-year-old right-hander has struck out 99. Before a strained left oblique landed him on the 15-day DL, Latos was 5-0 with a 1.12 ERA in six starts.

On Friday night, the Pirates were beaten 5-3 in the opener of this three-game set, San Diego got yet another effective effort from its pitchers. Adrian Gonzalez, Padres first baseman is 1 for 13 over his past four contests. In his last 17 games against Pittsburgh (34-62), he has 19 RBIs. At Pittsburgh, the Padres have won 22 of their last 31 games.

Jeff Karstens (2-5, 4.84) will now get the ball from Pittsburgh. In his past three outings, he is 0-2 with a 6.35 ERA. This is his first start against the Padres. Surrendering five runs in 2 1/3 innings, he has faced them twice in relief. After scoring five runs over their last two games, the Pirates’ lineup will try to give him some support.

Following a 16-for-27 (.593) stretch, Pittsburgh rookie Neil Walker went 0 for 3. He entered this series batting .400 in 21 home games.

Topping that list is the divorce of owners Frank and Jaime McCourt. While personal issues should not influence professional decisions, the McCourt’s divorce will leave a lasting impression on the Dodgers future. The team appears to be reluctant to make any serious monetary commitments until a judge determines whether or not Jaime should be an equal owner.

Future hall of fame left fielder Manny Ramirez mentioned that he would be considering retirement at the end of the season. His teammates feel as though Ramirez’s comments on retirement are just “Manny being Manny.” While some feel that it is just Ramirez’s way of blowing off steam, he is not getting any younger.

Matt Kemp will need to learn how to deal with life in the spotlight. On the field he’s comfortable and in control. His relationship with singer Rihanna is going to generate more media attention than he is accustomed to. If he can balance his public life with his private life, he will thrive.

There is no doubt as to the amount of talent the Dodgers can place on the field. They can hold their own with any team in the National League. Look for them to rack up another 90-win season. So get in an early bet on odds to win World Series.