MLB Game Preview: San Diego Padres (27-20) vs. Toronto Blue Jays (24-24)

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The San Diego Padres and Toronto Blue Jays will face off in the final game of their three-game series at Rogers Centre on Thursday, May 22, 2025, at 1:07 PM ET. The Padres are looking to snap a five-game losing streak, while the Blue Jays aim to secure a series win at home.

Team Overview & Season Performance

San Diego Padres (27-20, 3rd in NL West)

  • The Padres have struggled recently, going 3-7 in their last 10 games.
  • Fernando Tatis Jr. leads the team with 12 home runs and 27 RBIs, but he has hit just .200 over his last five games.
  • Manny Machado has been the most consistent hitter, batting .314 with 20 RBIs.
  • Stephen Kolek is expected to start, holding a 2-1 record with a 2.33 ERA.

Toronto Blue Jays (24-24, 4th in AL East)

  • The Blue Jays have won six of their last 10 games, including a dominant 14-0 win over San Diego in Game 2.
  • Vladimir Guerrero Jr. leads the team with six home runs and a .289 batting average.
  • Bo Bichette has been a key contributor, batting .288 with 24 RBIs.
  • Bowden Francis is expected to start, struggling with a 2-6 record and a 5.63 ERA.

Key Matchups to Watch

Fernando Tatis Jr. vs. Toronto’s Pitching

  • Tatis has been San Diego’s most dangerous hitter, but he has struggled recently.
  • Toronto’s pitching staff held him to just one hit in Game 2—can he bounce back?

Manny Machado vs. Blue Jays’ Defense

  • Machado has been San Diego’s most consistent hitter, batting .389 over his last 15 games.
  • If he continues his hot streak, the Padres could generate much-needed offense.

Bo Bichette vs. Padres’ Pitching

  • Bichette had multiple RBIs in Game 2, helping Toronto dominate.
  • If he stays hot, Toronto’s offense could overpower San Diego again.

X-Factors

San Diego’s Struggles Against Left-Handed Pitching

  • The Padres have struggled against lefties, batting just .231 against them this season.
  • If Francis can limit early damage, Toronto will have a strong chance to win.

Toronto’s Home Performance

  • The Blue Jays have been strong at home, going 14-12 at Rogers Centre.
  • If they continue their offensive momentum, San Diego could be in trouble.

Weather Conditions

  • Rain is expected throughout the day, which could impact pitching grip and offensive production.

Prediction & Final Thoughts

This matchup features two struggling pitchers, meaning offense could be the deciding factor. The Blue Jays enter as slight underdogs, but their recent dominance over San Diego gives them an edge.

Game Odds

San Diego Padres             – 118

Ttornto Blue Jays             9

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Wednesday, May 21, 2025