The San Diego Padres return to Petco Park on Monday night with a league-best 13–3 record and the distinction of being undefeated at home, standing at a dominant 10–0 in front of their hometown fans. This early-season surge has solidified their place atop the NL West and sent a clear message across the league that San Diego is playing with purpose, precision, and a balanced attack that few clubs have matched so far in 2025. Their offense has been potent, averaging 4.6 runs per game while boasting a .283 team batting average, a testament to both lineup depth and consistency. Fernando Tatis Jr. has been the unquestioned catalyst, hitting .351 with four home runs and nine RBIs, and routinely energizing the Padres both offensively and defensively with his five-tool impact. Around him, the supporting cast has provided timely hitting and disciplined approaches at the plate, putting pressure on opposing pitchers from top to bottom. On the mound, San Diego will send Dylan Cease to the hill, who holds a 1–1 record but a concerning 7.98 ERA through his early starts. While Cease has yet to find his best form in 2025, the Padres have shown confidence in his ability to bounce back, and they’ll look to support him with strong run production and timely bullpen assistance if necessary. Their pitching staff as a whole has been exceptional, leading the majors with a 2.68 ERA and holding opponents to a league-low .181 batting average—clear evidence that even when the offense isn’t firing on all cylinders, San Diego can still win games with arms alone.

The bullpen has played a critical role in preserving leads and securing tight victories, while the defense has limited mistakes and consistently converted key outs to stifle late-inning rallies. The team’s chemistry and intensity under manager Mike Shildt have been palpable, especially during home games where the crowd energy and confidence of the players have formed a nearly impenetrable advantage. As they welcome the Chicago Cubs—a potent offensive club averaging over six runs per game—San Diego knows the challenge lies in containing Kyle Tucker and his red-hot bat. The plan will likely center on establishing Cease’s fastball command early, using the bullpen surgically in the middle innings if necessary, and playing to their strengths by staying aggressive on the bases and capitalizing on scoring chances. If the Padres continue executing in all facets of the game, particularly with the backing of their home-field crowd and flawless record in San Diego, they are well-positioned to extend their winning streak and reinforce their status as the National League’s early-season powerhouse. Monday’s game isn’t just another regular-season contest—it’s a chance for San Diego to validate their early dominance against another division leader and send a strong message that they intend to control the NL West from start to finish.