Padres Clinch Playoff Spot After Sweep Over Diamondbacks, Set To Face Cubs

The San Diego Padres finished the 2025 regular season with a 90-72 record, securing a playoff spot and preparing to face the Chicago Cubs in a best-of-three Wild Card series at Wrigley Field. Manny Machado had a strong season, hitting .275 with 27 home runs, 95 RBIs, and 91 runs scored across 159 games, including a standout performance against the Diamondbacks where he went 2-for-2 with a home run. Machado, who joined the Padres in 2019 on a record-breaking 10-year, $300 million contract, has been a key player and was recently praised by GM A.J. Preller, whom Machado playfully compares to Adam Sandler due to his casual style. Nick Pivetta is set to start Game 1 for the Padres, bringing a 2.87 ERA and solid stats to counter the Cubs' potent offense, which ranked among the top in runs, hits, and home runs during the season. The Padres aim for their first-ever World Series title, motivated by their recent playoff experiences and strong roster. Historically, the Padres have a good record in Wild Card series but have struggled on the road, adding to the challenge they face against the Cubs.