Padres Shine in Cactus League Showdown Against Angels
The San Diego Padres and Los Angeles Angels clashed under the warm sun at Peoria Stadium, offering fans a preview of what’s to come this season. With both teams fielding a lineup packed with major league talent, this was a game that promised excitement from the first pitch.
King’s Commanding Start
Michael King, vying for the Opening Day start, was nothing short of impressive in his first spring outing. He retired the first six batters with ease, showcasing his signature sinker.
Christian Moore did manage to take him deep in the third, but King’s overall performance was a reminder of his potential. With 37 pitches thrown, including 26 strikes, King wrapped up his day with four strikeouts and just two hits allowed.
His arsenal, featuring an electric four-seam and sweeper, looks ready to anchor the Padres’ rotation.
Sixth-Inning Surge
The Padres’ bats came alive in the sixth inning, turning the tide against Angels’ pitcher Chris Cortez. Manny Machado set the stage with a walk, followed by singles from Carlos Rodriguez and Fernando Tatis Jr.
Nick Castellanos and Pablo Reyes both drew walks, pushing the Padres ahead 2-1. Ty France then delivered in the clutch, overturning a strike three call and driving in two more runs with a single, extending the lead to 4-1.
Bullpen Depth on Display
With King’s early exit, the Padres’ bullpen took center stage, covering over six innings. Alek Jacob was particularly noteworthy, striking out the side in the fourth.
Ty Adcock and Kyle Hart each contributed scoreless innings, while Omar Cruz rebounded from two solo homers to finish strong. Jagger Haynes and Logan Gillaspie also impressed, with Gillaspie striking out the side in the ninth to seal the win.
Extra-Base Hits Galore
The Padres showcased their power with a series of doubles. Jackson Merrill’s 107-mph rocket to left-center was a highlight, and the eighth inning saw Jase Bowen, San Diego’s 21st-ranked prospect, add an RBI double. Mason McCoy capped the scoring with a double down the line, bringing home top prospect Ethan Salas.
Looking Ahead
Next up, the Padres face the Cincinnati Reds in Goodyear. Nick Pivetta will make his 2026 debut, taking the mound against the Reds’ Chase Burns. Fans can catch the action on 97.3 The Fan, as the Padres continue their spring journey.
This game was a testament to the Padres’ depth and potential, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.