Padres Extend 10-Game Winning Streak Over Pirates with Cease Starting

The San Diego Padres are navigating a challenging offensive stretch but remain optimistic about their overall performance, having won their third consecutive series despite recent struggles to generate hits. Star pitcher Dylan Cease, who has struggled with consistency this season, is showing signs of improvement with a recent 3.49 ERA over his last seven games and is set to start against the Pittsburgh Pirates, a team with a weak batting lineup that strikes out frequently. Cease’s high strikeout numbers make him a favorable bet to exceed eight strikeouts again in the upcoming game. The Pirates, led by pitcher Bailey Falter and strong base running, present a threat but have recently fallen to the Padres, who have now won 10 straight games against them since August 2024. The Padres’ solid pitching staff and key offensive contributors like Manny Machado and Gavin Sheets provide the team with a balanced attack, although offensive consistency remains a concern. Overall, the Padres are focused on maintaining their momentum while addressing offensive inefficiencies as they face the Pirates in this weekend series at PETCO Park.