Padres' Melvin Upton Jr.: Gets Sunday off

Upton is not in the starting lineup Sunday against the Nationals.

Analysis:

Upton has started three straight games for San Diego, but will take a seat Sunday in favor of an outfield composed of Alex Dickerson (left), Travis Jankowski (center) and Matt Kemp (right). One would think Upton has the upper hand for playing time over Dickerson, but perhaps his current slump (3-for-20) is playing a role. Upton should be back in the lineup in short order, as the Padres need him active if they intend to maximize his trade value prior to the deadline.