Jake Cronenworth is stepping into the leadoff spot for the Padres against the Tigers’ Jack Flaherty. This role isn’t entirely new to him-he was a frequent leadoff hitter in the minors, but has only 24 starts at the top in the majors. His last stint as leadoff was in 2023, where he struggled, but he’s coming off a strong season with a .367 on-base percentage, making him a potential catalyst for Fernando Tatis Jr. to drive in runs.
Padres manager Craig Stammen appreciates Cronenworth’s approach at the plate. “He does a really good job working the opposing pitcher,” Stammen noted.
“He sees a lot of pitches, fouls a lot off, and provides valuable insights when he returns to the dugout. We’ve faced Jack Flaherty often, and having Croney lead off gives us a solid start.”
Cronenworth’s last regular stint as a leadoff hitter was in 2019 in the minors, where he posted impressive numbers. Against right-handers, he boasts a career .768 OPS, which could be advantageous against Flaherty.
With Tatis moving to the second spot, followed by Manny Machado and Jackson Merrill, the Padres are adjusting their lineup. Xander Bogaerts drops to the fifth spot, shifting from his previous role against lefties.
Gavin Sheets, Ramón Laureano, and Nick Castellanos, who’s making his season debut as the designated hitter, round out the order. Freddy Fermin returns behind the plate, batting ninth.
As for the Tigers, they’re aiming for a sweep, sending Jack Flaherty to the mound. Last year, Flaherty led the NL in losses, but he has had some success against the Padres in the past.
Meanwhile, Randy Vásquez takes the mound for the Padres. Coming off a career-high in innings pitched, Vásquez is looking to solidify his role in the majors, especially with no minor league options remaining.
Both pitchers have their work cut out for them in this matchup at Petco Park.