Yu Darvish makes history with a record-setting win as the Padres shut out the Mets 5-0 on July 31. Darvish's gem secures a sweep for San Diego.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
On a day buzzing with trade deadline anticipation, Yu Darvish turned back the clock and rewrote the history books. The veteran ace was simply untouchable, delivering a masterful 7-inning, scoreless performance to lead the Padres to a 5-0 victory over the New York Mets. The win not only secured a dominant series sweep and a fifth straight victory but also etched Darvish's name alone atop a prestigious list, all while the front office signaled that reinforcements are on the way.
We're looking to add a bat or two.
It was the Yu Darvish the Padres have been waiting for all season. Coming off an elbow issue that sidelined him until early July, Darvish earned his first win of 2025 in spectacular fashion. He carved up the Mets over seven shutout innings, allowing just two hits while striking out seven and, most impressively, walking none. With the victory, his 111th in MLB, Darvish officially surpassed Hiroki Kuroda for the most combined professional wins (204) by a Japanese pitcher between MLB and Japan's NPB. It was a historic, dominant, and deeply needed performance from the team's ace.
While Darvish blanked the Mets, the offense provided just enough thunder to secure the win. Gavin Sheets broke the game open with a two-run homer, continuing his solid contributions. Later, it was Manny Machado who delivered the knockout blow with a clutch two-run single with the bases loaded. The victory marked the Padres' MLB-leading 15th shutout of the season, a testament to a pitching staff that has been the backbone of their success as they continue to chase the Dodgers in the NL West.
As the on-field action concluded, the off-field drama intensified. General Manager A.J. Preller confirmed what every fan was hoping to hear, stating the team's clear intention to 'add a bat or two' before the deadline. The focus is squarely on improving the bottom of the lineup, with left field and a catcher or versatile bench bat being the primary targets. With the team holding the final NL Wild Card spot and a 'playoffs or bust' mentality, Preller is clearly ready to be aggressive to put the team over the top.
Every potential trade comes with a cost, and for the Padres, that means dipping into their farm system. While top prospects Leo De Vries and Ethan Salas are reportedly off-limits, the club has a stable of intriguing arms that could be moved. Pitchers like Braden Nett, Ryan Bergert, and Bradgley Rodriguez are valuable assets, either as trade chips or potential late-season bullpen help. The front office faces the classic deadline dilemma: how much of the future are they willing to part with for a shot at glory this October?
With a five-game winning streak, the final Wild Card spot secured for now, and one of MLB's easiest remaining schedules, the Padres are in an enviable position. The sweep of the Mets was a statement. Now, all eyes turn to the front office. Who are the bats A.J. Preller will bring in to bolster this lineup for the final stretch? The next few hours will define whether this team is just a contender or a true threat to the Dodgers for the NL crown.
