MLB Game Preview: San Diego Padres (23-11) vs. New York Yankees (19-16)

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Date: May 6, 2025
Time: 7:05 PM ET
Venue: Yankee Stadium, Bronx, NY
Broadcast: TBS

Matchup Overview

The San Diego Padres (23-11) and New York Yankees (19-16) meet for the second game of their three-game series at Yankee Stadium. The Padres secured a 4-3 comeback victory in Game 1, scoring all four of their runs in the eighth inning. San Diego has now won six straight games and holds an 8-3 record in one-run contests this season.

The Yankees, meanwhile, have dropped three straight games, struggling with bullpen reliability. Despite Carlos Rodón’s 6 2/3 shutout innings in Game 1, New York’s relief pitching faltered, allowing four runs in the eighth inning.

Starting Pitchers

San Diego Padres – Michael King (4-1, 2.09 ERA, 46 K)

  • Last Start: 5 2/3 IP, 1 ER, 3 H vs. San Francisco.
  • Career vs. Yankees: First career start against his former team.
  • Analysis: King has been dominant, holding opponents to a .191 batting average. He’s looking for his seventh straight start of five or more innings.

New York Yankees – Clarke Schmidt (0-1, 5.52 ERA, 9 K)

  • Last Start: 4 2/3 IP, 3 ER, 5 H vs. Toronto.
  • Career vs. Padres: First career start against San Diego.
  • Analysis: Schmidt has struggled with command, posting a 5.5 BB/9 rate. He’ll need to limit walks to keep the Yankees competitive.

Key Players to Watch

San Diego Padres

  • Fernando Tatis Jr. – Batting .317 with eight home runs, leading the Padres’ offense.
  • Luis Arraez11-for-31 in his last 10 games, providing consistent contact hitting.
  • Manny Machado – A veteran presence, looking to capitalize against Schmidt’s shaky command.

New York Yankees

  • Aaron Judge – Leads the Yankees with 11 home runs, batting .414 in his last 10 games.
  • Austin Wells10-for-39 with four doubles and two home runs in his last 10 games.
  • Paul Goldschmidt – Recorded a deep center-field single in Game 1, looking to spark the Yankees’ offense.

Game Storylines & Predictions

1. Can the Yankees’ Bullpen Recover?

New York’s relief pitching has been inconsistent, with Devin Williams struggling (10.03 ERA in 14 games). If the bullpen falters again, San Diego could capitalize late.

2. Michael King’s Return to Yankee Stadium

King, a former Yankee, faces his old team for the first time. His 2.09 ERA ranks ninth in MLB, making him a tough challenge for New York’s lineup.

3. Padres’ Late-Game Strength

San Diego has been dominant in one-run games, proving their ability to rally late. If the Yankees don’t build an early lead, the Padres could strike again.

Game Odds

San Diego Padres             – 112

New York Yankees           8.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Monday, May 5, 2025