Mets vs Padres Preview: Heroic Pitchers Face Off

The Mets roll into San Diego riding momentum. They just won their last game and sit at 27-35 overall. But here's the tough part: their injury list looks like a hospital roster. Francisco Lindor, their star shortstop, is still healing from a calf strain. Luis Robert Jr. won't return until late June. Francisco Alvarez, their young catcher, just started rehab games. Jorge Polanco is working his way back too. The Padres face a wounded team—but New York's pitcher Christian Scott takes the mound ready to compete.

The Padres are in a rough stretch. They've lost their last five games and sit 32-29. At home, they're just 16-16. Michael King, their ace pitcher, leads the rotation and keeps San Diego competitive. He's struck out about 6 batters per game this season. The Padres' bullpen, led by closer Mason Miller, remains one of the league's best weapons. But with injuries hitting Ramon Laureano and others, San Diego needs this game badly. King takes the mound against the Mets' Scott in a must-win situation.

Christian Scott for New York faces Michael King for San Diego. This matchup sits at the heart of the game. The Mets need their pitcher to limit damage while their offense—already missing key bats—tries to score runs. Meanwhile, King must keep San Diego's streak alive and protect the home field. Both teams have strong bullpens waiting in the wings. The Padres' Mason Miller and the Mets' Devin Williams are both deadly closers. This game could come down to which team's starting pitcher throws fewer pitches and fewer walks. Whoever takes this one gets major breathing room.