Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Can the Padres stay hot against the visiting Twins?

Originally posted on Dice City Sports | By Tony Reyes | Last updated Aug 19, 2024 8:54 PM ET

What: MLB Regular Season Game
When: Monday, August 19
Who: Minnesota Twins vs. San Diego Padres
Time: 9:40 p.m. ET
Where: Petco Park (San Diego, CA)

An exciting series between two of baseball’s top teams will kick off on Monday night. San Diego and Minnesota have overcome slow starts and are now vying for a spot in the playoffs.

Minnesota Twins

Zebby Matthews is getting ready for his second career start, and his debut was quite impressive. He secured a win against the formidable Royals in his first game, and notably, he did not issue a single walk.

This feat was consistent with his previous performances, as Matthews has only walked 22 batters in 205.1 innings throughout his MiLB career and seven batters in 97 innings this season.

Additionally, Matthews has shown an impressive ability to strike out batters at a high rate. If he can maintain his strong command and minimize walks, the Twins have a good chance of winning the upcoming game.

Okay, before we start, let’s go over the ground rules. No touching of the hair or face. And that’s it. pic.twitter.com/8AxNNlD5v9

— Minnesota Twins (@Twins) August 19, 2024

The Twins have been on a roll since the start of August, boasting an 11-5 record. Throughout these 16 games, they have maintained a .254 batting average and an impressive .780 OPS.

Minnesota has consistently scored over five runs per game during this period. Their dominance is evident from their 50-8 record when scoring at least five runs in a game this season.

If they can effectively challenge King, they stand a good chance of clinching another victory.

San Diego Padres

San Diego’s offensive strategy will be crucial in the upcoming game. The team leads the league in batting average and ranks high in slugging percentage, and its ability to make solid contact is evident.

The Padres have the fewest strikeouts in MLB and the lowest whiff rate, indicating they are unlikely to struggle with strikeouts.

King kickin' off the homestand! pic.twitter.com/LK2a0KwFl3

— San Diego Padres (@Padres) August 19, 2024

If they can execute their offensive strategy and score a few runs, they stand a good chance of winning the game.

Michael King has been having an impressive season, and the Padres have been reaping the benefits of his success. Since the beginning of May, King has been one of the most outstanding pitchers.

During this period, he has maintained a 2.54 ERA in 17 starts, pitched 99.1 innings, recorded 121 strikeouts, and only given up 26 walks. San Diego has a 12-5 record in these starts.

King’s exceptional performance for San Diego will likely continue, and if he maintains this level of play, the Padres are poised to win.