Date: May 7, 2025
Time: 7:05 PM ET
Venue: Yankee Stadium, Bronx, NY
Broadcast: MLB Network, YES Network, Bally Sports San Diego
Matchup Overview
The San Diego Padres (23-11) and New York Yankees (19-16) meet for the final game of their three-game series at Yankee Stadium. The Padres secured a 4-3 victory in the series opener, rallying late to extend their six-game winning streak. The Yankees, meanwhile, are looking to snap a three-game losing streak and avoid a sweep.
New York leads MLB with 60 home runs, averaging 1.7 per game, while San Diego ranks 24th in homers (29) but boasts a top-five team batting average (.257).
Starting Pitchers
San Diego Padres – Michael King (4-1, 2.09 ERA, 46 K)
- Last Start: 5.2 IP, 1 ER vs. San Francisco.
- Season Stats: 2.09 ERA, 1.01 WHIP, .191 opponent batting average.
- Analysis: King has been dominant, holding opponents to three earned runs or fewer in all seven starts. He returns to Yankee Stadium after being traded in the Juan Soto deal, adding an emotional layer to this matchup.
New York Yankees – Clarke Schmidt (0-1, 5.52 ERA, 15 K)
- Last Start: 5.0 IP, 1 ER vs. Toronto.
- Season Stats: 5.52 ERA, 1.43 WHIP, .214 opponent batting average.
- Analysis: Schmidt has struggled with command, posting a 5.5 BB/9 rate. He’ll need to limit San Diego’s aggressive hitters to keep New York in the game.
Key Players to Watch
San Diego Padres
- Fernando Tatis Jr. – Leads the team with eight home runs, batting .317.
- Manny Machado – Batting .285 with six home runs, looking to capitalize on Schmidt’s struggles.
- Xander Bogaerts – Provides veteran leadership and clutch hitting.
New York Yankees
- Aaron Judge – Has 11 home runs and a .414 batting average, leading the Yankees’ offense.
- Juan Soto – Facing his former team, batting .253 with seven home runs.
- Anthony Rizzo – Batting .265, looking to spark New York’s lineup.
Game Storylines & Predictions
1. Can the Yankees Avoid a Sweep?
New York’s bullpen struggled in Game 1, allowing four runs in the eighth inning. If Schmidt falters early, the Yankees could be in trouble again.
2. Padres’ Road Dominance
San Diego has been one of MLB’s best road teams, winning 76.5% of games when favored. Their ability to manufacture runs late in games has been a key factor.
3. Emotional Return for Michael King
King faces his former team for the first time since being traded. If he channels his emotions effectively, he could deliver another strong outing.
Game Odds
San Diego Padres 8
New York Yankees – 180
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Tuesday, May 6, 2025
