Mariners Host ‘Vedder Cup’ With Padres

May 5, 2015; Anaheim, CA, USA; Seattle Mariners starting pitcher James Paxton (65) pitches the first inning starting pitcher James Paxton (65) against the Los Angeles Angels at Angel Stadium of Anaheim. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

Game 1 Tuesday, 7:10pm

James Paxton (0-2, 5.08 ERA) vs. Ian Kennedy (2-1, 5.03 ERA)

Paxton is coming off of a nice performance against the Angels where he went 7 innings and only allowed 2 runs. He has never faced the Padres, but is 1-1 with a 3.31 career ERA in interleague games. He has a 2.89 ERA in 10 career starts at Safeco Field.

Kennedy is recently off the disabled list, and has performed well since being blasted by the Dodgers last month. He is coming off of his best start of 2015 against the Giants when he went 7 innings while only allowing one run and 5 strikeouts.

The two Mariners hitters with the most experience against Kennedy are Rickie Weeks (25 plate appearances) and Seth Smith (23). Smith has far better numbers against his former San Diego teammate, with a .300 average and a home run. Weeks has struggled with a 3-for-21 line (.143).

Next: Game 2