Dodgers vs Padres Preview: Monster Sasaki Leads LAD

Roki Sasaki is the guy throwing for Los Angeles Saturday. The Japanese pitcher signed with the Dodgers in 2025 and brings serious heat. Sasaki has struck out 21 batters this season with a 3.77 ERA. The Padres' lineup needs to find their swing against his hard stuff. Los Angeles just won three straight games. Their pitching staff is stacked with talent from top to bottom. Blake Snell and Tyler Glasnow sit behind Sasaki. This Dodgers rotation looks dangerous heading into June. San Diego will need to be patient and pick their pitches.

Los Angeles enters Petco Park with serious confidence. The team sits at 52-29 overall and just won three straight. On the road, they're looking sharp. Kyle Tucker might be back in the lineup soon after dealing with back trouble. Will Smith is out with neck issues, but the Dodgers have depth everywhere. Their lineup hits hard and runs the bases smart. San Diego comes in at 42-37. The Padres won their last three games too. Both teams bring winning streaks into this matchup at the park in San Diego.

Walker Buehler gets the start for the Padres on Saturday. San Diego's pitching staff includes Michael King anchoring the rotation with solid experience. Mason Miller locks down games in the bullpen with electric stuff. The Padres must find a way to handle Sasaki's power. Nick Pivetta is hurt and stuck on the injured list. German Marquez looks close to returning from his injury soon. San Diego's rotation needs to stay healthy to compete with tough Dodgers teams. This game at home could shift momentum in the division race. The Padres have the talent to match Los Angeles.