By LAFB Network,Ryan Anderson
Copyright yardbarker
Vote For Your Favorite Dodgers Duo: Ohtani – Yamamoto, Betts – Freeman, Hernandez – Hernandez
As the postseason nears, the Padres face three major considerations. First, who starts Game 3 in a potential winner-take-all Wild Card matchup. Michael King is likely to start Game 2, behind Nick Pivetta in Game 1, but Game 3 options—Yu Darvish, Dylan Cease, and Randy Vásquez—carry question marks. Analysts lean toward Darvish for his prior success in high-pressure, winner-take-all games.
Second, Ramón Laureano’s injury shakes up the lineup. Gavin Sheets and Bryce Johnson could fill in, though adjustments will be needed against left-handed pitchers. Jose Iglesias remains a bench option, but Johnson’s defensive versatility makes him a candidate to start in left field.
Finally, the last three roster spots remain uncertain. The Padres appear set on five starters, six relievers, and three bench players. Predictions include recalling Will Wagner, while Kyle Hart and Yuki Matsui fill bullpen roles. Laureano’s absence slightly reduces the need for a 14th position player.
Staying Competitive
Manager Mike Shildt emphasized the balance between resting key players and competing down the stretch. “We’re still looking to go compete, because we still have some unfinished business this season,” Shildt said. “We’re gonna still go… give guys the right opportunity and the rest and still compete to take down more wins.”
With the Dodgers just 2.5 games ahead in the NL West, the Padres remain focused on positioning themselves for home-field advantage in the Wild Card series. Their 49-29 record at Petco Park underscores the potential for a postseason edge. History may favor Los Angeles, but San Diego is prepared to make the playoffs anything but predictable.
