The San Diego Padres host the streaking New York Mets on July 28, 2025. Can Manny Machado lead the Padres to victory and gain ground in the NL West race?
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
Welcome to what might be the most important week of the season so far, Friar Faithful. The San Diego Padres (57-49) are back home, riding a two-game win streak, but a juggernaut is rolling into town. The New York Mets (62-44), winners of seven straight, arrive at Petco Park for a series that has massive implications for the NL West race and the broader playoff picture.
The unstoppable force meets the immovable object: The Mets' seven-game winning streak collides with the Padres' formidable 31-18 record at Petco Park.
Tonight's series opener is a classic test. While the Padres have been solid, winning their last two, the Mets are arguably the hottest team in baseball. This series is a true measuring stick. For the Padres to succeed, they'll need their leader, Manny Machado, to continue his stellar play. Machado enters the contest leading the team with a .300 batting average, 19 home runs, and 66 RBIs. San Diego has turned Petco Park into a fortress this season, and they'll need every bit of that home-field advantage to cool off the streaking Mets.
Every game matters, but these feel different. With the Los Angeles Dodgers sitting just four games ahead in the NL West, this series presents a golden opportunity. A series win against a top-tier opponent like New York would not only provide a massive confidence boost but could also allow the Padres to chew into that divisional lead. Losing the series could see them fall further behind, making the path to a division title significantly steeper. The pressure is on.
To win tight games against elite teams, a deep and reliable bullpen is essential. The front office made a move with that in mind late last week, recalling RHP Ron Marinaccio from Triple-A El Paso and optioning LHP Kyle Hart. This provides a fresh arm for high-leverage situations. The move is even more critical given the season-ending UCL surgery for RHP Jhony Brito, whose absence puts a greater strain on the rest of the pitching staff. Having arms like Marinaccio ready to perform will be key against the Mets' potent lineup.
The script is written. A hot team versus a team that's nearly unbeatable at home, with divisional hopes hanging in the balance. This series against the Mets isn't just another set of games; it's a litmus test for the Padres' championship aspirations. It's time to defend the yard and make a statement. All eyes are on Petco Park.
