SAN FRANCISCO -- Bryan Mitchell has had plenty to deal with: inconsistent command, a monthlong demotion to the minors, and stint on the disabled list with an elbow injury.
Now, the 27-year-old San Diego Padres right-hander believes he's a better pitcher for it.
Mitchell struck out seven in 8 2/3 strong innings, Jose Pirela had a homer among his three hits, and the Padres defeated the San Francisco Giants 5-0 Monday night.
"I didn't plan for this year to go the way it had, but it's kind of been a learning experience in a sense," Mitchell said.