Los Angeles Dodgers vs San Diego Padres Prediction – MLB Preview, Picks & Analysis

Los Angeles Dodgers vs San Diego Padres Prediction - MLB Preview, Picks & Analysis

Dodgers vs. Padres: A Clash on the West Coast – Game Preview for August 22, 2025

On August 22, 2025, the Los Angeles Dodgers and the San Diego Padres will face off in what promises to be an electrifying matchup between two fierce National League West rivals. As the playoff race intensifies, both teams are vying for supremacy in their division, making this game pivotal not just for bragging rights, but for the postseason picture as well.

Context: Standings and Rivalry Significance

The Dodgers and the Padres have been running neck-and-neck for the top spot in the NL West. As of mid-August, the Dodgers hold a slim lead with a record of 75-50, while the Padres are chasing closely with a 72-53 record. Both squads are not just competing for the division title but are also key players in the National League Wild Card race. This rivalry has been one of the most compelling in baseball over the past few seasons, especially after the Padres’ recent resurgence as a competitive force.

Recent Performance

Los Angeles Dodgers

Over their last ten games, the Dodgers have posted a 6-4 record, showcasing both their hitting prowess and pitching depth. They are currently on a three-game winning streak, with key victories against division opponents that have helped them maintain their lead in the standings. The Dodgers’ lineup has been firing on all cylinders, highlighted by a dramatic walk-off win against the Arizona Diamondbacks three days ago, emphasizing their resilience in tight situations.

San Diego Padres

The Padres have been equally impressive, going 7-3 in their last ten contests. They are coming off a two-game sweep of the San Francisco Giants, which included a thrilling extra-innings victory. The team’s offense is clicking at the right time, propelled by crucial contributions from their star players. San Diego’s pitching has also been formidable, allowing them to remain within striking distance of the Dodgers.

Head-to-Head History

In the 2025 season series, the Dodgers and Padres have faced each other 12 times, with Los Angeles holding a slight edge with a 7-5 record. Historically, this matchup has been evenly contested, with the Dodgers winning 7 of the last 10 meetings dating back to 2024. San Diego, however, has shown they can compete with the best, often rising to the occasion in crucial matchups against their Southern California rivals.

Pitching Matchups

Los Angeles Dodgers

The Dodgers are expected to send their ace, Walker Buehler, to the mound. Buehler has been stellar this season, boasting a 2.89 ERA and a 0.98 WHIP, with an impressive 10.8 strikeouts per nine innings. His recent outings have been dominant, including a complete game shutout against the St. Louis Cardinals two weeks ago. Buehler is a pitcher who thrives under pressure, and his ability to control the game could be pivotal for the Dodgers.

San Diego Padres

The Padres will counter with their own star right-hander, Yu Darvish. Darvish has been reliable for San Diego, carrying a 3.25 ERA and a 1.10 WHIP, along with a solid 9.5 strikeouts per nine innings. Despite a few tough outings earlier in the season, Darvish has rebounded strongly, illustrated by his seven-inning, one-run performance against the Rockies last week. His experience and craftiness on the mound will be crucial in neutralizing the Dodgers’ potent lineup.

Key Position-Player Matchups

Los Angeles Dodgers

  • Mookie Betts: The Dodgers’ dynamic leadoff hitter is having another All-Star season, with a .315 batting average, a .930 OPS, 26 home runs, and 80 RBIs. Betts has historically hit well against Darvish, making him a player to watch.

  • Freddie Freeman: Freeman continues to be a cornerstone of the Dodgers’ offense, posting a .295 average with an .890 OPS, 24 home runs, and 85 RBIs. His ability to get on base and drive in runs poses a significant threat to San Diego’s pitching staff.

San Diego Padres

  • Fernando Tatis Jr.: Tatis Jr. is the heartbeat of the Padres’ lineup, batting .310 with a .950 OPS, 30 home runs, and 90 RBIs. His electric playstyle and clutch hitting have been instrumental in San Diego’s success against the Dodgers.

  • Manny Machado: Machado provides veteran leadership and offensive firepower, with a .285 batting average, .880 OPS, 25 home runs, and 77 RBIs. His matchup against Buehler will be crucial in determining the Padres’ offensive output.

Situational Factors

The game will take place at Dodger Stadium, known for its pitcher-friendly dimensions, which might slightly favor the hurlers in this matchup. The weather forecast predicts clear skies with temperatures in the mid-70s, creating perfect conditions for baseball. On the injury front, the Dodgers have a minor concern with outfielder Chris Taylor day-to-day with a sore wrist, while the Padres are without reliever Drew Pomeranz, who is recovering from elbow soreness.

Advanced Metrics

Los Angeles Dodgers

The Dodgers’ lineup boasts an impressive team wRC+ (Weighted Runs Created Plus) of 115, indicating they create 15% more runs than the average MLB team. Their pitching staff, anchored by Buehler, has a collective FIP (Fielding Independent Pitching) of 3.45, suggesting their dominance isn’t solely reliant on their defense.

San Diego Padres

San Diego’s offensive effectiveness is highlighted by a team wRC+ of 110, showcasing their ability to generate runs efficiently. The Padres’ pitching, with a team FIP of 3.70, reflects their reliable performance independent of fielding support, largely due to Darvish’s and the bullpen’s contributions.

Prediction

This Dodgers vs. Padres clash is set to be a tightly contested battle. Given the Dodgers’ recent form, home-field advantage, and Walker Buehler’s dominant presence on the mound, they appear to have the upper hand going into this game. I predict a close game with a final score of 5-3 in favor of the Dodgers. However, given the Padres’ resilience and competitive edge, my confidence level stands at 65% for a Dodgers win. This game will undoubtedly be a pivotal chapter in the ongoing saga between these two powerhouses of the National League.

Today MLB Pitcher Prop Bets Generator

Player NamePropPredictionLineTrendsLast 3 GamesWindTeamOddsDate
Aaron NolaAaron Nola
pitcher_earned_runsOver2.53.78Over Hit 2/3Neutral
Philadelphia PhilliesPhiladelphia Phillies
-10508-17
Aaron NolaAaron Nola
pitcher_strikeoutsUnder5.55.78Under Hit 2/3Neutral
Philadelphia PhilliesPhiladelphia Phillies
-12508-17
Aaron NolaAaron Nola
pitcher_walksUnder1.51.78Under Hit 2/3Neutral
Philadelphia PhilliesPhiladelphia Phillies
-17508-17
Andrew AbbottAndrew Abbott
pitcher_earned_runsUnder2.51.57Under Hit 1/3Neutral
Cincinnati RedsCincinnati Reds
-11008-17
Andrew AbbottAndrew Abbott
pitcher_strikeoutsUnder2.55.0Under Hit 1/3Neutral
Cincinnati RedsCincinnati Reds
28008-17
Andrew AbbottAndrew Abbott
pitcher_walksOver1.51.67Over Hit 2/3Neutral
Cincinnati RedsCincinnati Reds
-14508-17
Antonio SenzatelaAntonio Senzatela
pitcher_strikeoutsOver2.52.5Over Hit 2/3Neutral
Colorado RockiesColorado Rockies
11608-17
Clay HolmesClay Holmes
pitcher_earned_runsUnder2.52.17Under Hit 2/3Neutral
New York MetsNew York Mets
-12508-17
Clay HolmesClay Holmes
pitcher_strikeoutsOver3.54.21Over Hit 2/3Neutral
New York MetsNew York Mets
-16508-17
Cristian JavierCristian Javier
pitcher_earned_runsUnder2.52.0Under Hit 1/1Neutral
Houston AstrosHouston Astros
-14508-17
Cristian JavierCristian Javier
pitcher_strikeoutsOver4.55.0Over Hit 1/1Neutral
Houston AstrosHouston Astros
-15408-17
Cristian JavierCristian Javier
pitcher_walksUnder2.52.0Under Hit 1/1Neutral
Houston AstrosHouston Astros
-20008-17
Davis MartinDavis Martin
pitcher_earned_runsUnder3.52.61Under Hit 2/3Neutral
Chicago White SoxChicago White Sox
-16008-17
Davis MartinDavis Martin
pitcher_strikeoutsOver2.53.89Over Hit 2/3Neutral
Chicago White SoxChicago White Sox
-17008-17
Davis MartinDavis Martin
pitcher_walksOver1.51.72Over Hit 3/3Neutral
Chicago White SoxChicago White Sox
-14008-17
Dean KremerDean Kremer
pitcher_earned_runsOver2.52.71Over Hit 2/3Neutral
Baltimore OriolesBaltimore Orioles
-13008-17
Dean KremerDean Kremer
pitcher_strikeoutsOver4.54.83Over Hit 3/3Neutral
Baltimore OriolesBaltimore Orioles
-14608-17
Dean KremerDean Kremer
pitcher_walksUnder1.51.5Under Hit 2/3Neutral
Baltimore OriolesBaltimore Orioles
-13008-17
Garrett CrochetGarrett Crochet
pitcher_earned_runsOver1.51.75Over Hit 3/3Neutral
Boston Red SoxBoston Red Sox
-18508-17
Garrett CrochetGarrett Crochet
pitcher_strikeoutsOver7.57.83Over Hit 2/3Neutral
Boston Red SoxBoston Red Sox
10508-17
Garrett CrochetGarrett Crochet
pitcher_walksUnder1.51.67Under Hit 2/3Neutral
Boston Red SoxBoston Red Sox
-15008-17
George KirbyGeorge Kirby
pitcher_earned_runsUnder2.52.33Under Hit 3/3Neutral
Seattle MarinersSeattle Mariners
-14008-17
George KirbyGeorge Kirby
pitcher_strikeoutsOver5.56.0Over Hit 3/3Neutral
Seattle MarinersSeattle Mariners
11008-17
Janson JunkJanson Junk
pitcher_earned_runsUnder3.52.27Under Hit 2/3Neutral
Miami MarlinsMiami Marlins
-15008-17
Janson JunkJanson Junk
pitcher_strikeoutsOver3.53.47Over Hit 1/3Neutral
Miami MarlinsMiami Marlins
10008-17
Janson JunkJanson Junk
pitcher_walksOver1.50.53Over Hit 1/3Neutral
Miami MarlinsMiami Marlins
17508-17
Javier AssadJavier Assad
pitcher_earned_runsOver1.54.0Over Hit 1/1Good
Chicago CubsChicago Cubs
-17008-17
Javier AssadJavier Assad
pitcher_strikeoutsUnder4.52.0Under Hit 1/1Good
Chicago CubsChicago Cubs
-16008-17
Javier AssadJavier Assad
pitcher_walksUnder1.51.0Under Hit 1/1Good
Chicago CubsChicago Cubs
12008-17
Jeffrey SpringsJeffrey Springs
pitcher_earned_runsUnder2.52.44Under Hit 2/3Neutral
Oakland AthleticsOakland Athletics
-12508-17
Jeffrey SpringsJeffrey Springs
pitcher_strikeoutsOver4.54.36Over Hit 2/3Neutral
Oakland AthleticsOakland Athletics
-13408-17
Jeffrey SpringsJeffrey Springs
pitcher_walksUnder1.51.64Under Hit 3/3Neutral
Oakland AthleticsOakland Athletics
-10508-17
Jose BerriosJose Berrios
pitcher_earned_runsUnder2.52.36Under Hit 2/3Neutral
Toronto Blue JaysToronto Blue Jays
-12508-17
Jose BerriosJose Berrios
pitcher_strikeoutsUnder3.54.76Under Hit 2/3Neutral
Toronto Blue JaysToronto Blue Jays
15508-17
Jose BerriosJose Berrios
pitcher_walksUnder1.51.96Under Hit 2/3Neutral
Toronto Blue JaysToronto Blue Jays
13008-17
Jose QuintanaJose Quintana
pitcher_earned_runsUnder2.52.11Under Hit 2/3Neutral
Milwaukee BrewersMilwaukee Brewers
11508-17
Jose QuintanaJose Quintana
pitcher_strikeoutsUnder2.53.83Under Hit 0/3Neutral
Milwaukee BrewersMilwaukee Brewers
26008-17
Jose QuintanaJose Quintana
pitcher_walksUnder1.52.0Under Hit 2/3Neutral
Milwaukee BrewersMilwaukee Brewers
13008-17
Jose SorianoJose Soriano
pitcher_earned_runsUnder2.52.44Under Hit 2/3Neutral
Los Angeles AngelsLos Angeles Angels
-12508-17
Jose SorianoJose Soriano
pitcher_strikeoutsOver4.55.0Over Hit 2/3Neutral
Los Angeles AngelsLos Angeles Angels
-14508-17
Jose SorianoJose Soriano
pitcher_walksUnder2.52.52Under Hit 3/3Neutral
Los Angeles AngelsLos Angeles Angels
-18008-17
Logan WebbLogan Webb
pitcher_earned_runsOver1.52.28Over Hit 1/3Neutral
San Francisco GiantsSan Francisco Giants
-16508-17
Logan WebbLogan Webb
pitcher_strikeoutsOver5.56.72Over Hit 2/3Neutral
San Francisco GiantsSan Francisco Giants
-14008-17
Logan WebbLogan Webb
pitcher_walksOver1.51.4Over Hit 1/3Neutral
San Francisco GiantsSan Francisco Giants
18008-17
Miles MikolasMiles Mikolas
pitcher_earned_runsUnder2.52.83Under Hit 2/3Neutral
St. Louis CardinalsSt. Louis Cardinals
12008-17
Miles MikolasMiles Mikolas
pitcher_strikeoutsOver3.53.43Over Hit 1/3Neutral
St. Louis CardinalsSt. Louis Cardinals
-12408-17
Miles MikolasMiles Mikolas
pitcher_walksUnder1.51.09Under Hit 3/3Neutral
St. Louis CardinalsSt. Louis Cardinals
-15008-17
Mitchell ParkerMitchell Parker
pitcher_earned_runsOver2.53.29Over Hit 3/3Neutral
Washington NationalsWashington Nationals
-17008-17
Mitchell ParkerMitchell Parker
pitcher_strikeoutsUnder4.53.5Under Hit 3/3Neutral
Washington NationalsWashington Nationals
-16508-17
Mitchell ParkerMitchell Parker
pitcher_walksOver1.52.04Over Hit 2/3Neutral
Washington NationalsWashington Nationals
-12508-17
Nathan EovaldiNathan Eovaldi
pitcher_earned_runsUnder2.51.1Under Hit 2/3Neutral
Texas RangersTexas Rangers
-16508-17
Nathan EovaldiNathan Eovaldi
pitcher_strikeoutsUnder3.55.7Under Hit 1/3Neutral
Texas RangersTexas Rangers
18008-17
Nathan EovaldiNathan Eovaldi
pitcher_walksOver1.51.05Over Hit 1/3Neutral
Texas RangersTexas Rangers
15508-17
Ryan PepiotRyan Pepiot
pitcher_earned_runsOver2.52.44Over Hit 2/3Neutral
Tampa Bay RaysTampa Bay Rays
10008-17
Ryan PepiotRyan Pepiot
pitcher_strikeoutsUnder5.55.52Under Hit 2/3Neutral
Tampa Bay RaysTampa Bay Rays
-13008-17
Ryan PepiotRyan Pepiot
pitcher_walksOver1.51.96Over Hit 3/3Neutral
Tampa Bay RaysTampa Bay Rays
-16008-17
Tyler GlasnowTyler Glasnow
pitcher_earned_runsUnder2.51.64Under Hit 2/3Neutral
Los Angeles DodgersLos Angeles Dodgers
-17008-17
Tyler GlasnowTyler Glasnow
pitcher_strikeoutsOver5.55.82Over Hit 2/3Neutral
Los Angeles DodgersLos Angeles Dodgers
-13008-17
Tyler GlasnowTyler Glasnow
pitcher_walksOver1.52.45Over Hit 3/3Neutral
Los Angeles DodgersLos Angeles Dodgers
-17008-17
Will WarrenWill Warren
pitcher_earned_runsUnder2.52.36Under Hit 3/3Neutral
New York YankeesNew York Yankees
-16008-17
Will WarrenWill Warren
pitcher_strikeoutsUnder5.55.6Under Hit 2/3Neutral
New York YankeesNew York Yankees
-15008-17
Will WarrenWill Warren
pitcher_walksOver1.52.16Over Hit 1/3Neutral
New York YankeesNew York Yankees
-14508-17
Yu DarvishYu Darvish
pitcher_earned_runsUnder2.53.0Under Hit 2/3Neutral
San Diego PadresSan Diego Padres
-11008-17
Yu DarvishYu Darvish
pitcher_strikeoutsOver4.54.14Over Hit 3/3Neutral
San Diego PadresSan Diego Padres
10008-17
Yu DarvishYu Darvish
pitcher_walksUnder1.51.57Under Hit 2/3Neutral
San Diego PadresSan Diego Padres
13008-17

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