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[San Diego Padres]

San Diego Padres bullpen is the season’s first-month MVP

San Diego Padres closer Robert Suarez | Photo by Monica Bradburn/MLB Photos via Getty Images

Closer Robert Suarez has been dominant to close out games.

The San Diego Padres bullpen has been unhittable in the season’s first month. Robert Suarez, Jason Adam, Jeremiah Estrada, Adrian Morejon, Wandy Peralta, and Alek Jacob combined to shut down opponents nightly. It is impressive how this unit offers the Padres a chance to win despite their hitting struggles.

Easily, the Friars pen is the team’s April MVP. Who could argue? The unit is ranked No.1 among all major league bullpens in ERA (1.63), home runs allowed (7), earned runs (19), and WHIP (0.97).

The stat line for each reliever does not lie​

• Robert Suarez: 10-10 in save opportunities with a 0.00 ERA, 13 Ks in 11.0 IP
• Jason Adam: 2-0 with a 0.64 ERA in 13 appearances, 18 Ks in 14.0 IP
• Jeremiah Estrada: 0-1 with a 1.42 ERA in 12 appearances, 16 Ks in 12.2 IP
• Adrian Morejon: 1-0 with a 2.19 ERA in 12 appearances, 9 Ks in 12.1 IP
• Wandy Peralta: 2-0 with a 0.71 ERA in 12 appearances, 9 Ks in 11.2 IP
• Alek Jacob: 1-0 with a 1.80 ERA in 12 appearances, 11 Ks in 15.0 IP

Some may have viewed this unit as being a question mark at the start of spring training. No one was quite sure who would replace Tanner Scott in the eighth-inning role. As we head into May, the bullpen is proving to be one of the biggest strengths on the Padres roster.

Adam has done a terrific job setting up Suarez to be flawless in the ninth. Peralta has provided another reliable arm in the bridge to a team win. Estrada has been lights out for the first month of the season.

Inconsistent offense aided by the pen​

The offense was thriving when the Padres batting order was fully intact. But it has underperformed since injuries to Jackson Merrill, Jake Cronenworth, and Luis Arraez forced them out of the lineup. League-wise, the Friars ranked 21st in total runs scored and 22nd in batting average with runners in scoring position.

Yes, the offense has struggled to score runs. The Friars have lost seven of their last nine games and currently are on a four-game losing streak. Do not overlook the production from the bullpen; otherwise, the losing streak could be even longer. The lack of production has not given the bullpen any margin for error.

Collectively, they have given the team a chance to win. That is all the Friar Faithful can ask for with the recent offensive struggles. Merrill, Cronenworth, and Arraez’s return to the lineup should improve the team’s ability to score runs.

#Padres Luis Arráez is expected to be activated from the IL for tomorrow’s game, sources tell @ElExtrabase.

— Daniel Álvarez-Montes (@DanielAlvarezEE) April 28, 2025​

Struggling rotation could tax bullpen​

The Padres’ fourth and fifth starters have trouble consistently throwing strikes this season. The bullpen has managed to camouflage their erratic starts by shortening games to six-inning affairs. It forces opposing lineups to secure a lead early or the Friars pen will close out the game for a victory. Their dominance is why the Padres have a winning record at 17-11.

However, it is not long-term sustainability for your fourth and fifth starters failing to pitch beyond the fifth inning. If not, you run the risk of burning out your pen. The return of Yu Darvish to the starting rotation can only help matters.

Moving forward, the bullpen’s reputation will grow as their dominance is flying under the radar with the national media. Yes, the unit will hit a speed bump at some point this season. But it will be important for each reliever to continue contributing and pick up a teammate if they’re struggling.

There is no reason why the Padres bullpen can’t continue being the team’s MVP.

Source: https://www.gaslampball.com/2025/4/...padres-bullpen-is-the-seasons-first-month-mvp

 

[San Diego Padres]

Good Morning San Diego: Padres welcome in the Giants

Photo by Alex Slitz/Getty Images

Everything you need to know about your San Diego Padres on the morning of April 29, 2025.

#Padres Luis Arráez is expected to be activated from the IL for tomorrow’s game, sources tell @ElExtrabase.

— Daniel Álvarez-Montes (@DanielAlvarezEE) April 28, 2025​

Articles to read​

San Diego Padres bullpen is the season’s first-month MVP (Thomas Conroy, Gaslamp Ball)

Battered Padres eyeing Giants for first real NL West test of 2025 (Jeff Sanders, San Diego Union-Tribune)

Padres on deck: Early battle with NL West-leading Giants (Jeff Sanders, San Diego Union-Tribune)

Padres minors: Catcher Brandon Valenzuela powers San Antonio win (Jeff Sanders, San Diego Union-Tribune)

MLB power rankings: Searching for answers (Jeff Sanders, San Diego Union-Tribune)

Latest Padres injuries and transactions (MLB.com)

What to make of a stacked NL West? The experts break it down (MLB.com)

Source: https://www.gaslampball.com/2025/4/29/24419882/good-morning-san-diego-padres-welcome-in-the-giants

 

[San Diego Padres]

Good Morning San Diego: Padres snap their losing streak

Photo by Matt Thomas/San Diego Padres/Getty Images

Everything you need to know about your San Diego Padres on the morning of April 30, 2025.

Articles to read​

Xander Bogaerts homers, drives in three to lead Padres past Giants (Matt DeWalt, Gaslamp Ball)

Xander Bogaerts homers as Padres beat Giants, stop losing streak (Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune)

Padres Daily: Bogaerts’ big night; Pivetta’s tipping; injury updates (Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune)

Padres notes: Luis Arraez all smiles in return, Ethan Salas lands on San Antonio injured list (Jeff Sanders, San Diego Union-Tribune)

Padres pregame: Luis Arraez, Jason Heyward return from IL; team cuts ties with Yuli Gurriel (Jeff Sanders, San Diego Union-Tribune)

Xander Bogaerts’ first homer of the year is a welcome glimmer for the Padres (Dennis Lin, The Athletic)

Bogaerts’ first homer of the year propels Padres to much-needed win (AJ Cassavell, MLB.com)

Arraez, Heyward return from IL; Gurriel DFA’d (AJ Cassavell, MLB.com)

NEW! Top 150 Draft Prospects: Major changes, big jumps highlight list (Jonathan Mayo, MLB.com)

Source: https://www.gaslampball.com/2025/4/...ing-san-diego-padres-snap-their-losing-streak

 

[San Diego Padres]

San Diego Padres need to rebound from the season’s first rough stretch

San Diego Padres snapping a four-game losing streak | Photo by Matt Thomas/San Diego Padres/Getty Images

The return of injured starters could change the Friars’ fortunes.

The first month of the 2025 major league baseball season was going as smoothly as you can imagine for the San Diego Padres. But what a difference a week makes.

Last week, the Padres were atop the National West standings with a 17-8 record. Today, they’re 19-11 and in second place behind the Los Angeles Dodgers. Welcome to the season’s first rough stretch of play for the Friars.

Unexpected injuries, silent bats, and rough play led to rough stretch​

The Padres are in unfamiliar territory, as their division lead and early season momentum have slipped away. The details of the team’s struggles are highlighted by injuries to key producers from the starting lineup. The Friars are desperate to turn things around after getting swept at home by the Tampa Bay Rays.

A day off is a great avenue for a team to change their fortunes. It allows the players to take a break from the grind of the regular season. But it does not hurt for the lineup receiving reinforcements off the injured list.

Luis Arraez and Jason Heyward are welcome additions to the active roster and more help is on the way. According to the San Diego Union-Tribune, Jackson Merrill could return to the lineup against the New York Yankees next Monday. The report expects Jake Cronenworth back for the Colorado Rockies series that begins May 9.

On the field, the Padres responded with starting pitcher Nick Pivetta tossing 5.1 innings of decent baseball. The lineup’s 3-4-5 hitters went 4-10 with five runs, HR, and 4 RBIs to break a four-game losing streak. It was the type of boost needed for a team reeling downward.

What lies ahead for the Padres​

Keep in mind there is a long season ahead. A bad week of baseball has put the Friar Faithful on high alert. Instead, the Padres should be applauded for treading water while waiting for their regulars to return to the lineup.

The Friars needed to sweep the San Francisco Giants in an abbreviated two-game home series. They did not want to fall back too far in the tough NL West. It was about getting themselves in the position to produce. Hopefully, they will gain some momentum before another obstacle comes their way.

The shine may have come off to the Padres’ fast start to the season. But, the team’s mentality has hardened after surviving such a bad stretch of play. It could blossom into the Padres returning to their winning ways.

Source: https://www.gaslampball.com/2025/4/...-rebound-from-the-seasons-first-rough-stretch

 

[San Diego Padres]

Manny Machado is worth the price of admission

Manny Machado | Denis Poroy-Imagn Images

Padres fans should appreciate what we have at the hot corner rather than dwell on the contract

There are some segments of the San Diego Padres fan base that choose to lament the years or the money Manny Machado received from the team when he signed his 11-year, $350 million contract extension in 2023. His performance in the month of April should put the concerns of those fans at ease. In fact, they may even consider themselves fortunate to have the opportunity to see Machado make special plays for their team with regularity.

Machado'd | verb

Definition: see below pic.twitter.com/SDcp6Y74dI

— San Diego Padres (@Padres) April 30, 2025​

While Machado has yet to catch fire in the home run department, having hit just two to this point in the season, he has been hitting the ball hard. His sliders on Baseball Savant reflect that, so the home runs will come.

Machado has taken the stance in past seasons that he does not worry about how his numbers look at the start of the year, it’s about how he finishes. In six seasons in San Diego, if you remove the COVID shortened 2020 season, Machado has never played less than 153 games. With that kind of availability, it’s easy to imagine 2025 will follow suit and Machado will have the numbers Padres fans have come to expect from their All-Star third baseman.

During his time in San Diego, once again excluding the 2020 season, Machado has never hit below .254 and that happened in 2019, his first year with the Padres. He has also hit between 28 and 32 home runs, driven in 85 to 106 RBI and has scored 75 to 100 runs every season. Machado has shown with his past performances his numbers on offense will be there at the end of 162.

Machado has played in all 30 games for the Padres this season and has recorded 31 hits with 10 doubles and his two home runs. He has also walked 10 times, stolen six bases and has a .279 batting average.

Manny Machado leans into this baseball and sends it a long way pic.twitter.com/dytKW8jtdM

— MLB (@MLB) April 16, 2025​

It’s hard to imagine complaining about those kinds of numbers, but if fans are not impressed by Machado on offense, they have to be impressed by his defense.

Manny backhands and shows off the CANNON pic.twitter.com/pmbunDiYrL

— MLB (@MLB) April 6, 2025​

In the month of April, Machado made multiple memorable plays that resulted in radio broadcasters Jesse Agler and Tony Gwynn Jr. hanging a star and praise from TV broadcasters Don Orsillo and Mud Grant.

Manny Machado is way too smooth with the barehand pic.twitter.com/JqTbNqlXbv

— MLB (@MLB) April 16, 2025​

Of course, there are plays that Machado makes that seem routine, but are equally as impressive despite the lack of excitement.

Manny Machado's arm strength is absurd pic.twitter.com/EdSBqaj8J9

— MLB (@MLB) April 9, 2025​

It is impossible to make everyone happy and Padres fans are always going to want more. However, I think it is important to take the time to appreciate what we have in Machado while he is here. There are more teams who would want Machado in their lineup for the next 11 seasons than there are who would pass on him.

Source: https://www.gaslampball.com/2025/5/1/24421983/manny-machado-is-worth-the-price-of-admission

 

[San Diego Padres]

Good Morning San Diego: Xander Bogaerts pleased with his swing

Photo by Matt Thomas/San Diego Padres/Getty Images

Everything you need to know about your San Diego Padres on the morning of May 2, 2025.

Articles to read​

Manny Machado is worth the price of admission (Matt DeWalt, Gaslamp Ball)

Padres keep the boat afloat (Cheri Bell, Gaslamp Ball)

Padres’ Xander Bogaerts working on ‘going back to the old me’ (Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune)

Padres minors: Luis Campusano takes Clayton Kershaw deep, Sean Reynolds wins rehab appearance (Jeff Sanders, San Diego Union-Tribune)

For a Padres rookie, path to majors paved by legendary coach who perished with Kobe Bryant (Dennis Lin, The Athletic)

4 questions for the Padres to answer in May (AJ Cassavell, MLB.com)

Source: https://www.gaslampball.com/2025/5/...-diego-xander-bogaerts-pleased-with-his-swing

 

[San Diego Padres]

Padres beat Pirates, but lose Fernando Tatis Jr.

Gavin Sheets | Photo by Matt Thomas/San Diego Padres/Getty Images

San Diego bangs out 14 hits, scores nine runs against Pittsburgh

Just when the San Diego Padres thought their team was getting back to full strength, Fernando Tatis Jr. took a fastball off his left forearm from Pittsburgh Pirates starting pitcher Mitch Keller in the top of the third inning, and exited the game.

Tatis Jr. was hit by the pitch and walked away from the batters box. He crouched down in the grass and Padres manager Mike Shildt and the San Diego trainer came out to check on him. Tatis Jr. would eventually stand up and walk off the field, into the dugout and to the clubhouse.

The last guy the Padres need to be without pic.twitter.com/KKQKmCrZKs

— Talking Friars (@TalkingFriars) May 3, 2025​

Tatis Jr. left the game in Pittsburgh and the Friar Faithful held their collective breath, waiting for an update on his injury. Before the game was over, the Padres obliged and released a statement about Tatis Jr.’s condition that allowed many San Diego fans to exhale.

Update from the Padres clubhouse: Fernando Tatis Jr. exited tonight’s game with a left forearm contusion. Initial x-rays are negative. He’s receiving treatment and will continue to be evaluated.

— San Diego Padres (@Padres) May 3, 2025​

To add insult to injury for the Padres, Dylan Cease only completed four innings, throwing 91 pitches. He allowed two runs on three hits, walked three and struck out three for San Diego.

The Padres needed someone to step up in Tatis Jr.’s absence. San Diego had not just one, but multiple players raise their level of play and help the Padres get a 9-4 win over the Pirates at PNC Park, Friday night.

Gavin Sheets was the first player to fill the void, getting San Diego on the board with a solo home run in the top of the fourth inning. The 406-foot home run by Sheets tied the game, 1-1.

Clear the deck, Gavin! pic.twitter.com/6eIHQqF01j

— San Diego Padres (@Padres) May 3, 2025​

Tyler Wade followed Sheets’ lead with an RBI-single later in the inning that gave the Padres a 2-1 advantage after their turn at bat in the fourth. Cease surrendered the lead with a bases loaded walk in the bottom of the fourth, but he worked out of the jam and the inning ended with the score tied, 2-2.

Luis Arraez made his first contribution of the game with an RBI-double in the top of the fifth inning that scored Oscar Gonzalez, who singled in the previous at-bat, to give the Padres a 3-2 lead.

Run it up pic.twitter.com/73bASFsl19

— San Diego Padres (@Padres) May 3, 2025​

Manny Machado followed with an RBI-single that scored Arraez to make the score, 4-2. Machado ended up at third base on the play after sloppy defense by the Pirates. He scored one batter later when Sheets collected his second RBI of the game with a single to right field, pushing the Padres’ lead to 5-2.

Pittsburgh answered in the bottom of the fifth. Wandy Peralta replaced Cease and faced four batters and allowed a run before he was replaced by Alek Jacob. With two outs in the inning and a runner on third, Jacob hit the first batter he faced. He ended the inning when recorded a strikeout of Ke’Bryan Hayes with runners on the corners that kept the score, 5-3.

Adam Frazier hit a solo home run off Jacob to leadoff the bottom of the sixth inning to make the score, 5-4. That was as close as Pittsburgh would get as San Diego pulled away for good with three runs in the top of the eighth inning, one of which was a pinch-hit RBI-single by Lockridge, to take a four-run lead.

Ate. pic.twitter.com/lmpbwHjH53

— San Diego Padres (@Padres) May 3, 2025​

San Diego added a final run in the top of the ninth inning with a Jason Heyward sacrifice fly to center field, which scored Xander Bogaerts and pushed the lead to 9-4.

Sheets finished his night with three hits, two RBI and a run scored. Arraez also had three hits with three RBI and a run scored and Wade added two hits with an RBI and a run scored. The Padres finished with 14 hits in the game. Only Tatis Jr., who exited with the injury, Jose Iglesias and Elias Diaz did not record a hit for San Diego.

The Padres play the Pirates, Saturday at 1:05 p.m.

Source: https://www.gaslampball.com/2025/5/2/24422835/padres-beat-pirates-but-lose-fernando-tatis-jr

 

[San Diego Padres]

Game 32: San Diego Padres at Pittsburgh Pirates

Photo by Orlando Ramirez/Getty Images

Your game thread for May 3, 2025.

San Diego Padres at Pittsburgh Pirates, May 3, 2025, 1:05 p.m. PST​

Location: PNC Park, Pittsburgh, PA

Watch: Padres TV

Listen: 97.3 The Fan

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GB community, this is your thread for today’s game. Enjoy!

Source: https://www.gaslampball.com/2025/5/3/24419633/game-32-san-diego-padres-at-pittsburgh-pirates

 

[San Diego Padres]

What to expect with the return of Padres Jackson Merrill and Jake Cronenworth

San Diego Padres Jake Cronenworth and Jackson Merrill | Photo by Orlando Ramirez/Getty Images

The Friars should have their starting lineup intact by next weekend.

As we begin the second month of the 2025 Major League Baseball season, the postseason pretenders and contenders start to take shape. Usually, baseball fans do not pay attention to the division standings until Memorial Day.

The San Diego Padres will state their case as a playoff contender, but they must first patiently wait for the return of two starters to the lineup next week. The addition of Jackson Merrill and Jake Cronenworth brings high expectations for all.

The good news is both Merrill and Cronenworth have begun rehab work at the Padres sports complex in Peoria. The target dates for their return are May 5 for Merrill and May 9 for Cronenworth. Initially, each player might be eased into the lineup, as it may take some time to get their timing back in the field and at the plate.

The young phenom will be the first to arrive​

The return of Merrill adds some pop to the lineup, which has been missing a consistent left-handed longball threat since he found himself on the injury list. After opening weekend, he seemed like a lock to represent the Friars in this season’s Mid-Summer Classic. Merrill hit .378 with 3 HRs and 10 RBIs before tweaking his right hamstring.

It is unknown if he can continue at this pace once Merrill returns to the lineup. However, there is evidence that he will continue to attack the zone. His stance allows him to protect the inside corner by shortening his stroke and pulling the ball over the first base bag. Merrill’s balance in the box gives him enough plate protection to drive an outside pitch to the opposite field for an extra-base hit.

Also, let’s not forget his value as a plus glove in center field. Yes, Tyler Wade has done a terrific job in his absence, but the return of Merrill is unwelcome news for gap hitters. He has been chasing down those drives since his rookie debut last season.

The early storm of inconsistent play that has hovered over the Padres can be blown out to sea if Merrill performs to his standard of excellence.

Cronenworth is a welcome left-handed bat​

The Padres offense has missed Cronenworth’s ability to pull the ball down the line with runners in scoring position. Before going on the IL, his hard-hit rate was 38.5%. Cronenworth’s average exit velocity was 89.6 MPH, above the league average of 88.2 MPH. Before going on the IL, he was batting .257 with 2 HRs and 5 RBIs in 12 games.

The two-time All-Star is trying to earn his third appearance, as Cronenworth could be chosen solely for his exceptional fielding skills at second base. He has a .938 fielding percentage with two errors in 32 chances. If Cronenworth can get a glove on a ball, he will make a play. Two months may be long enough to make a case for himself.

Iglesias deserves more playing time​

The return of Merrill and Cronenworth provides some lineup flexibility at the designated hitter’s position. It gives Padres manager Mike Shildt some options as the season progresses. The Friar Faithful may see more of Jose Iglesias as the right-handed DH option in the lineup.

Gavin Sheets has done a terrific job as the left-handed DH. He is still producing at the same rate as in spring training. But Iglesias deserves consideration for more at-bats after being thrust into the lineup. He played well at second base in Cronenworth’s absence.

Iglesias is a skilled hitter who produced 10 RBI in limited at-bats. He has developed into a valuable depth piece off the bench. Now is the time for Iglesias to become the right-handed DH if he is not playing in the field.

The Friars welcome back two versatile hitters who can bat anywhere in the order. Merrill and Cronenworth have the plate discipline to draw a walk, get a base hit, or power the ball over the fence. On a given night, you could see their name posted anywhere in the order.

Merrill and Cronenworth can recapture their previous form upon their return to the lineup. The Padres have not looked like a complete team without them.

The wait is almost over.

Source: https://www.gaslampball.com/2025/5/...f-padres-jackson-merrill-and-jake-cronenworth

 

[San Diego Padres]

Stephen Kolek makes first MLB start, gets win

Stephen Kolek | Photo by Justin Berl/Getty Images

Padres score early, sweep Pirates

Stephen Kolek, who performed well as a starting pitcher in Spring Training, began the year in El Paso as a member of the San Diego Padres Triple-A affiliate. Kolek, like Michael King the year before, was transitioning to a starting role from the bullpen and finally got the call up to make his first MLB start against the Pittsburgh Pirates en route to a 4-0 win at PNC Park, Sunday.

Kolek recorded a strikeout of Oneil Cruz to start the game and retired each of the next two batters on a groundout and fly out to complete the bottom of the first.

Kolek allowed his first hit of the game with one out in the bottom of the second. Ke’Bryan Hayes singled and moved to second on a Tommy Pham single. Kolek found himself with two on and one out and facing his first test as a starter. He got out of the inning by striking out Adam Frazier and picking off Hayes at second base.

Kolek allowed his first walk when Jared Triolo walked to start the bottom of the third. Kolek responded again, inducing a ground out and recording two strikeouts, stranding Triolo at second base.

Stephen Kolek's 2Ks in the 3rd. pic.twitter.com/tqCpaezYt6

— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) May 4, 2025​

Kolek gave up a hit to start the fourth inning, but faced the minimum three batters after getting a fly out to center field from Enmanuel Valdez. Kolek got Hayes to bounce into a double play with a ground ball to Xander Bogaerts at short, who threw to Jose Iglesias at second who then threw to Luis Arraez at first base.

Kolek worked the fifth inning and faced four batters to get three outs and completed his day in the sixth inning. After getting a groundout from Cruz to start the inning, Kolek faced the next batter Bryan Reynolds and allowed a walk, which resulted in Padres Manager Mike Shildt replacing him with Jeremiah Estrada.

Estrada allowed a ground rule double to Joey Bart, which put runners at second and third. Kolek, who was no longer in the game was in danger of giving up a run because he was responsible for Reynolds. However Estrada kept Pittsburgh off the scoreboard with strikeouts of Valdez and Hayes to end the inning. Kolek finished his first MLB start without allowing a run. He allowed four hits and two walks and earned his first win as a starter.

A really encouraging first start in the Major Leagues for Stephen Kolek:

5.1 IP
0 R
4 H
4 K
2 BB
84 pitches (51 strikes) pic.twitter.com/tUWp3we9yi

— Sammy Levitt (@SammyLev) May 4, 2025​

Kolek was in line for the win, having completed at least five innings, thanks to four runs scored in the first two innings by San Diego. The Padres continued to hit with two outs and Manny Machado started the scoring rally with a two-out double down the left field line in the top of the first. He came in to score on a Bogaerts single to make the score 1-0. San Diego would go on to load the bases off Pittsburgh starter Andrew Heaney, but the Padres could not add on.

Enter Xanman pic.twitter.com/XUrEE7qWUj

— San Diego Padres (@Padres) May 4, 2025​

San Diego did add on in the top of the second inning with three runs. Elias Diaz hit his third home run of the year to start the inning to make the score, 2-0. The homer landed in the left field stands just beyond the reach of Pham, who actually had the ball glance off the end of his glove.

Díaz a lo profundo pic.twitter.com/uM0ITBGLqr

— San Diego Padres (@Padres) May 4, 2025​

Brandon Lockridge followed with a double and moved to third on a one-out single by Arraez. With runners on the corners and two outs, Bogaerts doubled and Lockridge and Arraez scored to put the Padres on top 4-0.

X GONNA GIVE YOU TWO MORE pic.twitter.com/733vkrWkFn

— Al Scott (@AlScott1998) May 4, 2025​

That was all the scoring San Diego and Kolek would need for the Padres to complete their three-game sweep of the Pirates.

San Diego moves on to New York to play the Yankees, Monday at 4:05 p.m.

Source: https://www.gaslampball.com/2025/5/4/24423317/stephen-kolek-makes-first-mlb-start-gets-win

 

[San Diego Padres]

Good Morning San Diego: Padres come to New York after sweeping Pittsburgh

Photo by Justin Berl/Getty Images

Everything you need to know about your San Diego Padres on the morning of May 5, 2025.

Michael King returns to the Bronx pic.twitter.com/eKcm1Bt82n

— Talking Friars (@TalkingFriars) May 5, 2025​

Articles to read​

Stephen Kolek makes first MLB start, gets win (Matt DeWalt, Gaslamp Ball)

Padres minors: Jackson Merrill, Jake Cronenworth start rehabs; Kyle Hart wild for El Paso (Jeff Sanders, San Diego Union-Tribune)

Padres finish off sweep of Pirates at start of long trip (Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune)

Kolek dazzles in 1st MLB start as Padres sweep Bucs (Will Aldrich, MLB.com)

Source: https://www.gaslampball.com/2025/5/...es-come-to-new-york-after-sweeping-pittsburgh

 

[San Diego Padres]

San Diego Padres Stephen Kolek is worth keeping an eye on

San Diego Padres Stephen Kolek | Photo by Justin Berl/Getty Images

The Friars pitching prospect could be the missing piece for the starting rotation.

A rainy weekend in Pittsburgh has put the San Diego Padres back on their winning ways. A three-game sweep of the Pittsburgh Pirates was a great start to a three-city, nine-game road trip.

But Sunday’s pitching performance by starter Stephen Kolek may have removed any obstacle placed by the struggles from the back end of the rotation. One start does not clear a hurdle, but it is worth keeping an eye on Kolek.

Darvish is missing but not forgotten​

Not having Yu Darvish on the Opening Day roster was a tough blow for the Padres. He has been sidelined with right elbow inflammation but is expected to return in late May or early June.

Team president of baseball operations and general manager A.J. Preller would not confirm Darvish’s return date, but he did offer encouraging news on him during an interview with “Ben and Woods” on 97.3 The Fan San Diego prior to the start of the last homestand.

“He’s had really good evals, he’s with the team on the road trip,” Preller explained. “He threw a bullpen in Houston and another one in Detroit. He’s starting to get some volume and he’s feeling good. I think he’ll continue to progress with bullpens and start getting back into games.”

In his absence, the Padres have received quality starts from the top of the starting rotation. But the team needs more consistency from the fourth and fifth starters to claim a postseason berth.

Michael King has taken his game to the next level as a second-year starting pitcher. Dylan Cease seems to have regained his form from a year ago despite early-season struggles. Nick Pivetta has been outstanding and Randy Vasquez has settled back into the mix after a few shaky starts.

Unfortunately, Kyle Hart’s ineffectiveness on the mound has been a noticeable weakness in the rotation. It is incredible the Friars have kept pace with the Los Angeles Dodgers atop the National League West division with a 23-11 record. A change had to be made.

Kolek making a case for the fifth starter position​

Kolek has been on a long journey before making his first major league career start in the series finale against the Pirates. He made 42 relief appearances with the Padres last season. The team plucked him off the Seattle Mariners roster during the Rule 5 Draft at the 2023 Winter Meetings.

His professional career began with the Dodgers selecting him in the 11th round of the 2018 MLB Draft. The Mariners purchased Kolek during the 2021 season.

He struggled coming out of the Friars’ pen. Kolek had a 5.79 ERA and had trouble getting strikeouts (39 Ks in 46.2 IP) to end opposing team’s scoring rallies. The Padres coaching staff felt he exhibited a talented arm and mound makeup to become a promising starting pitcher.

What impressed them was the right-hander showcasing a major league-level pitching repertoire during each outing. He throws a four-seam fastball (94 MPH), a hard sinker (94 MPH), a slider (85 MPH), and a cutter (91 MPH) that generates multiple ground ball outs. The sinking action of his pitches does keep the ball in the park.

He caught everyone’s attention in spring training and took a regular turn with Triple-A El Paso before being called up to the majors. Do not take much from his minor league stats as Kolek pitched in a hitter-friendly league. He was 1-0 with a 6.38 ERA in five starts. He does have a good BB/9 ratio at 1.5 walks per start. Through 24.0 IP, Kolek has struck out 20 batters and walked only four.

The Padres front office knows that changes need to be made to the fifth starter position in the rotation, whether Hart returns or Kolek is given an opportunity to win the spot.

The only concern is a potential innings limit for him, as it is his first season as a starting pitcher. Nevertheless, Kolek seems built to become a permanent member of the Friars’ rotation.

Time will tell if he is the right option.

Source: https://www.gaslampball.com/2025/5/...dres-stephen-kolek-is-worth-keeping-an-eye-on

 

[San Diego Padres]

Good Morning San Diego: Padres crushed in 7th inning at Yankee Stadium

Photo by Elsa/Getty Images

Everything you need to know about your San Diego Padres on the morning of May 7, 2025.

Articles to read​

Padres bullpen implodes in loss to Yankees (Matt DeWalt, Gaslamp Ball)

Padres seeing the old Xander Bogaerts resurface (Cheri Bell, Gaslamp Ball)

Yankees score 10 runs in seventh inning, even series with Padres (Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune)

Padres Daily: A flood of runs; Merrill hits ground running; King’s grind (Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune)

Tom Krasovic: 10-run inning doesn’t dampen Padres bullpen’s bullish start (San Diego Union-Tribune)

Padres bullpen falters as Jackson Merrill’s return brings hope of more balance (Dennis Lin, The Athletic)

King returns to where dream began: ‘Very happy with where I’m at’ (AJ Cassavell, MLB.com)

Merrill returns from IL to boost Padres, doubles in first AB (AJ Cassavell, MLB.com)

Source: https://www.gaslampball.com/2025/5/...adres-crushed-in-7th-inning-at-yankee-stadium

 

[San Diego Padres]

Good Morning San Diego: Dylan Cease seems fine after leaving last night with trainer

Photo by Michael Urakami/MLB Photos via Getty Images

Everything you need to know about your San Diego Padres on the morning of May 8, 2025.

Articles to read​

San Diego Padres offense getting healthy and ready for a hot stretch (Thomas Conroy, Gaslamp Ball)

Padres have an ‘invaluable’ 26th man (Cheri Bell, Gaslamp Ball)

Padres suffer extra-inning loss to Yankees (Matt DeWalt, Gaslamp Ball)

Yankees beat Padres in 10; Dylan Cease optimistic after exiting with cramp (Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune)

Padres minors: Jake Cronenworth homers for El Paso, Humberto Cruz debuts in Arizona (Jeff Sanders, San Diego Union-Tribune)

Cease, Merrill put on show for Padres, avoid injury scares (AJ Cassavell, MLB.com)

Source: https://www.gaslampball.com/2025/5/...ms-fine-after-leaving-last-night-with-trainer

 

[San Diego Padres]

Padres suffer extra-inning loss to Yankees

Jason Adam | Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images

Dylan Cease takes no-no into seventh, leaves with injury

For the second night in a row, the San Diego Padres bullpen could not keep the New York Yankees from scoring and earning a win.

The Padres took a 3-1 lead into the eighth inning and Jason Adam allowed a game-tying two-run home run to Trent Grisham to make the score, 3-3. Neither side plated a run in the ninth and the game went to extra innings.

Trent Grisham - New York Yankees (10)
pic.twitter.com/fB7s30GrVz

— MLB HR Videos (@MLBHRVideos) May 8, 2025​

San Diego started the top of the 10th inning with Brandon Lockridge at second base. Facing New York reliever Devin Williams, Fernando Tatis Jr. struck out swinging for the first out of the inning. Lockridge stole third and Luis Arraez walked to put runners at the corners with one out. Manny Machado went down swinging for the second out of the inning.

Jackson Merrill, who hit a home run to give the Padres a 1-0 lead in the top of the fourth inning, was hit by a pitch to load the bases. Xander Bogaerts worked the count full before he struck out swinging to end the inning.

Had to have known a change up was coming there and still missed it. That pitch looks nasty tonight
pic.twitter.com/vbbEfmY1kh

— Talking Friars (@TalkingFriars) May 8, 2025​

The Yankees came to bat in the bottom of the 10th inning and Oswaldo Cabrera faced Jeremiah Estrada. Cabrera was able to get a sacrifice bunt down to third baseman Manny Machado, who threw to first for the out. Jasson Dominguez, who started the inning on second base, was able to advance to third base on the play.

Pinch hitter J.C. Escarra followed with a deep fly ball to left field that Jason Heyward caught on the warning track. He did not attempt a throw home because of where the ball was caught and Dominguez tagged from third and ran home to score, giving the Yankees a 4-3 win.

J.C. Escarra walks it off for the @Yankees with a sac fly! #MLBNShowcase pic.twitter.com/4Qpt6Q4TRW

— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) May 8, 2025​

Padres starting pitcher Dylan Cease took a no-hitter into the bottom of the seventh inning and recorded the first out of the inning on a groundout. The next batter for the Yankees, Cody Bellinger, broke up the no-hitter and tied the game with a solo home run to right field to make the score, 1-1.

Cody Bellinger - New York Yankees (5)
pic.twitter.com/fU77FQW24s

— MLB HR Videos (@MLBHRVideos) May 8, 2025​

Cease answered and recorded the second out of the inning with a strikeout. He faced Dominguez and was ahead in the count 1-2, but that was as far as he would go. Cease appeared to have something wrong with his right arm, catcher Martin Maldonado noticed and called time, and Manager Mike Shildt came out and eventually removed Cease from the game. Adam came on to strikeout Dominguez, with one pitch, to end the inning.

Dylan Cease on leaving the game after what appeared to be a hand or arm issue: "It was just a forearm cramp. It basically like made my hand close tight for a couple seconds. I don't think it's anything too serious." #Padres

— Annie Heilbrunn (@annieheilbrunn) May 8, 2025​

To that point in the game, Cease was the beneficiary of some highlight reel defensive plays. In the bottom of the third Tatis Jr. showed off his platinum glove with a sliding catch in right field.

Fernando Tatis Jr. using that Platinum Glove ‍ pic.twitter.com/G0W8sIVfKU

— MLB (@MLB) May 7, 2025​

As difficult as that play was, Machado made an equally impressive play in the bottom of the fourth, fielding a ball behind third base and throwing across his body, and the diamond, to get the runner at first.

Manny makes it look so easy ‍ pic.twitter.com/wtBSPQH5Pc

— San Diego Padres (@Padres) May 8, 2025​

With those types of defensive plays and as good as Cease looked, the game was on track to be another memorable one in Padres history, but that was spoiled when Bellinger caught up with a fastball that was up and put it into the right field bleachers. Cease finished the night completing 6 2/3 innings, allowing one run on one hit with one walk and nine strikeouts.

Merrill lead the Padres offense with a home run and an RBI-single. The home run gave San Diego the lead in the top of the fourth inning.

Jackson just got all of that one pic.twitter.com/dU7hIAy6XD

— San Diego Padres (@Padres) May 8, 2025​

Merrill’s single also gave the Padres the lead, this time in the top of the eighth. He finished the night 2-for-4 with two RBI, a run scored and reached on a hit-by-pitch.

Jackson Merrill comes through AGAIN!

The @Padres retake the lead in the 8th! #MLBNShowcase pic.twitter.com/pBtrxpenqU

— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) May 8, 2025​

The Padres are off Thursday and return to action Friday in Colorado against the Rockies at 5:40 p.m.

Source: https://www.gaslampball.com/2025/5/7/24425969/padres-suffer-extra-inning-loss-to-yankees

 

[San Diego Padres]

Good Morning San Diego: Padres face worst team in baseball

Photo by Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Everything you need to know about your San Diego Padres on the morning of May 9, 2025.

Articles to read​

‘A video game’: 30 years later, Padres games at Coors Field are still a trip (Jeff Sanders, San Diego Union-Tribune)

Arraez, Adam praise wives for their support during trades to Padres (AJ Cassavell, MLB.com)

Latest Padres injuries and transactions (MLB.com)

Shutting the door: One prospect with closer potential from each team (Sam Dykstra, Jim Callis and Jonathan Mayo, MLB.com)

Source: https://www.gaslampball.com/2025/5/...-san-diego-padres-face-worst-team-in-baseball