The San Diego Padres face a win-or-go-home scenario Thursday afternoon as they take on the Chicago Cubs in Game 3 of the National League Wild Card Series. With the series tied at one game apiece, the winner will advance to face the Milwaukee Brewers in the Division Series.
Manager Mike Shildt has drawn scrutiny for his choice of starting pitcher. Rather than handing the ball to Michael King, who outperformed in most statistical categories this season, Shildt tabbed veteran Yu Darvish for the decisive game. Randy Vásquez was also considered an option but was passed over.
Darvish, 39, made only 15 appearances this season while dealing with injuries. King also pitched in just 15 games, but the numbers tilt heavily in his favor. King led Darvish in innings pitched, ERA, strikeouts, strikeout rate and WAR. Darvish’s only advantage came in walk totals and walk rate.
Shildt may be banking on experience. Darvish has made 13 career postseason appearances with four different clubs, though he owns a 5-7 playoff record. King has limited postseason exposure but has impressed when given the chance, going 2-0 with a 3.21 ERA and 16 strikeouts across three outings.
The Padres will also need help from their bullpen, which has been taxed after using Adrian Morejon and Mason Miller in back-to-back games. A strong start from Darvish could be essential in easing that burden.
The decision underscores the Padres’ gamble: trust the veteran with playoff pedigree or risk regretting passing on the younger arm who has been sharper statistically. Tonight’s result will determine whether San Diego’s season continues or ends in disappointment.