PHOENIX -- Bryan Mitchell returned to the Padres' rotation on Monday with newfound opportunity sitting squarely in front of him.
Forget the early-season struggles, in which Mitchell saw his ERA soar over 7 after the right-hander was a pivotal piece in a December trade with the Yankees. Here was Mitchell, given another chance to earn his place in the San Diego rotation after missing three months with a right elbow impingement.
It will take more than one impressive outing for Mitchell to earn that place. But on Monday night, at least, he earned further opportunity in the Padres' 6-2 victory over the D-backs at Chase Field.