The Tampa Bay Rays and San Diego Padres are set to face off in the second game of their three-game series on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at Petco Park in San Diego, California. First pitch is scheduled for 8:40 PM ET, and the game will be broadcast on regional sports networks and MLB.tv. The Rays are riding a three-game winning streak, including a narrow 1-0 victory in the series opener, while the Padres will look to bounce back and even the series.
Team Overview:
Tampa Bay Rays (12-14, 4th in AL East):
The Rays have been inconsistent this season but are showing signs of improvement with their recent winning streak. Tampa Bay’s offense has been middle-of-the-pack, ranking 15th in MLB with a .390 slugging percentage and 20th in home runs (23). Jonathan Aranda has been a standout performer, hitting .314 with four home runs and 13 RBIs, while Kameron Misner has contributed three doubles and two home runs over his last 10 games. The Rays’ pitching staff has been solid, striking out nine batters per nine innings, which ranks 10th in MLB. Ryan Pepiot will take the mound for Tampa Bay in Game 2.
San Diego Padres (17-9, 1st in NL West):
The Padres have been one of the best teams in baseball, particularly at home, where they boast a 12-2 record. Despite their loss in the opener, San Diego’s offense has been productive, ranking 10th in MLB with a .394 slugging percentage and 18th in home runs (24). Fernando Tatis Jr. has been the team’s offensive leader, hitting .333 with eight home runs and 17 RBIs, while Manny Machado has added nine doubles and two home runs. The Padres’ pitching staff has been effective, with a team ERA of 3.00 over their last 10 games. Dylan Cease will start for San Diego in Game 2.
Probable Pitchers:
Tampa Bay Rays:
- Ryan Pepiot (1-3, 4.82 ERA): Pepiot has had an up-and-down start to the season, with 31 strikeouts in 28 innings pitched. He will need to limit walks and avoid the big inning to keep the Padres’ potent lineup in check.
San Diego Padres:
- Dylan Cease (1-1, 6.04 ERA): Cease has struggled with consistency this season, allowing a .288 batting average to opponents. However, his ability to generate strikeouts (10.7 K/9) makes him a dangerous opponent if he can find his rhythm.
Key Players to Watch:
Tampa Bay Rays:
- Jonathan Aranda: Aranda has been one of the Rays’ most consistent hitters, with a .314 batting average and a 1.017 OPS.
- Kameron Misner: Misner’s recent form adds depth to Tampa Bay’s lineup.
- Ryan Pepiot: Pepiot’s ability to navigate San Diego’s lineup will be crucial for the Rays’ chances.
San Diego Padres:
- Fernando Tatis Jr.: Tatis has been a force at the plate, leading the team in home runs and RBIs.
- Manny Machado: Machado’s ability to deliver in clutch situations makes him a key player for the Padres.
- Dylan Cease: Cease’s performance on the mound will be a deciding factor in the game.
Matchup Analysis:
Offense vs. Pitching:
The Padres’ balanced offense will test Pepiot, who has struggled with consistency. Conversely, the Rays will need to find ways to generate offense against Cease, who has the potential to dominate if he’s on his game.
Momentum:
The Rays enter this game with confidence after their Game 1 victory and recent winning streak. The Padres, however, will look to leverage their strong home record and bounce back.
Defense and Bullpen:
Both teams have solid defensive units, but the Padres’ bullpen has been more consistent, with closer Robert Suarez already recording 10 saves this season.
Game Odds
Tampa Bay Rays 7
San Diego Padres – 135
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, April 25, 2025
