Mets vs Padres Preview: Ghost Sparks on the Mound

The Mets came into San Diego yesterday and shut down the Padres offense completely. New York won 5-0 on Saturday, with every run scoring off the bats of their best hitters. Young's massive home run to right-center traveled 422 feet. Bichette ripped a triple that brought Torrens home. Then Torrens himself rocketed a two-run homer over center field at 413 feet. The Mets' pitching staff locked down the Padres lineup all game long. Now New York brings that momentum into today's matchup. Can they keep this hot streak alive?

San Diego's rotation has solid arms, but Randy Vásquez takes the mound against Huascar Brazoban today. The Padres have Michael King anchoring their staff, and Mason Miller is one of baseball's most electric closers. But after yesterday's shutout loss, the Padres need their offense to wake up fast. The pitching is experienced and competitive. Yet the bats went silent against New York. This is a must-win game if San Diego wants to stay in the playoff hunt. The Padres sit at 32-30. They're in a tough fight in their division.

The Mets are missing some big names. Francisco Lindor, their star shortstop, is still recovering from a calf strain. Luis Robert Jr. is out with a back injury and won't return until late June. Francisco Alvarez recently started a rehab assignment with Syracuse. San Diego has problems too. Ramon Laureano is done for the season after shoulder surgery. Jake Cronenworth remains sidelined with a concussion and no clear return date. Both teams are fighting uphill battles right now. Getting healthy will be crucial for either team's playoff hopes down the stretch.