San Diego Padres right-handed pitcher Dylan Cease sees the dominant 11-1 win over the Los Angeles Dodgers as a sign of hope. A common killer for the Padres recently has been their reliance on the bullpen.

This was bigger than just a victory over the Dodgers. The opponent was largely immaterial for what was important in this game in the middle of June. Yes, beating the Dodgers 11-1 at packed Petco Park on Tuesday meant the Padres moved to within a game of first place in the National League West.

The baseball industry has learned not to underestimate A.J. Preller during trade season or, for that matter, at any time on the calendar.

The Dodgers vs. Padres series finale is all set to get underway at Petco Park as both teams look to secure a win. The Dodgers are coming off a humiliating loss after surrendering 11 runs and scoring only one in return.