Padres vs Red Sox Preview: Pitching Duel Sparks Sunday Showdown

Sunday at Fenway Park fans will smell grass and hear cleats. The Padres visit the Red Sox in week 54 of 2025, a springtime game with bright energy. San Diego brings steady pitching while Boston counters with strong arms. The crowd will buzz when pitchers duel, because both teams rely on reliable starters and bullpen depth.

The Padres rely on a solid, experienced pitching staff anchored by Michael King and Walker Buehler. Veterans Nick Pivetta and Joe Musgrove add stability, while Randy Vásquez fills innings when needed. Mason Miller brings electric closing power in the ninth, and Manny Machado supplies veteran leadership at third base during tight games.

Boston's rotation features Garrett Crochet as an ace and Ranger Suárez joining to add depth. Sonny Gray and Bryan Bello give experience and youth mix, while Aroldis Chapman handles late innings in the bullpen. Jarren Duran stands out for speed, stretching hits and pressuring defenses when he takes the bases.

Several players are on injured lists and returns are noted in timelines. Padres have Jason Adam and Matt Waldron on 15-day IL and Will Wagner on 10-day IL. Red Sox list Johan Oviedo and others on IL with dates. These absences shape roster depth, so expect different matchups and bullpen usage across nine innings.