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Padres' Manny Machado Set to Face Yankees in Anticipated PETCO Park Clash

As the San Diego Padres prepare to host the New York Yankees at PETCO Park, all eyes will be on Manny Machado, who has been a standout performer for the Padres in recent games. Machado, playing third base, has demonstrated remarkable consistency and power at the plate. Over the last three games, he has maintained an impressive batting average of .400 with an OPS of 1.089. His stellar performance includes a game against the Reds where he hit .500 with an OPS of 1.5.


May 24, 2024; San Diego, California, USA; New York Yankees starting pitcher Carlos Rodon (55) throws a pitch in the fourth inning against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: David Frerker-USA TODAY Sports

Machado's ability to get on base and drive in runs will be crucial for the Padres as they face a formidable Yankees lineup. In addition to his offensive prowess, Machado's fielding has been impeccable, maintaining a perfect fielding percentage across these games.


Another key player for the Padres is outfielder José Azocar, who had an exceptional game against the Reds with a batting average of .800 and an OPS of 2.2, including a home run and two RBIs. Azocar’s recent form suggests he could be a significant threat to the Yankees' pitching staff.


May 24, 2024; San Diego, California, USA;  San Diego Padres starting pitcher Yu Darvish (11) throws a pitch in the first inning against the New York Yankees at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: David Frerker-USA TODAY Sports

On the mound, Yu Darvish will be looking to improve his recent performances where he posted an ERA of 11.118 and WHIP of 1.7647 over his last outing against the Yankees. The Padres will need Darvish to regain his top form if they are to contain a potent Yankees offense.


For the Yankees, right fielder Juan Soto has been in exceptional form, boasting a batting average of .500 with two home runs and five RBIs over his last three games. Soto’s slugging percentage stands at 2.0, making him one of the most dangerous hitters in their lineup.


May 24, 2024; San Diego, California, USA;  New York Yankees shortstop Anthony Volpe (11) celebrates with New York Yankees third base coach Luis Rojas (67) after hitting a lead off triple in the first inning against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: David Frerker-USA TODAY Sports

Aaron Judge also poses a significant threat with his consistent power hitting; he has maintained an OPS of 1.833 over his last three games and hit .333 with one home run and three RBIs in that span.


The pitching duel will be intriguing as well, with Carlos Rodón likely taking the mound for the Yankees after posting an ERA of 0.0 and WHIP of 1.0 in his recent outings while striking out batters at nearly three per inning (k9: 27). Rodón’s ability to dominate on the mound could prove challenging for Padres hitters like Machado and Azocar.


This matchup promises excitement as both teams bring their top performers into play. Fans can expect thrilling moments from both sides when these two storied franchises clash.


The highly anticipated game between the San Diego Padres and New York Yankees is scheduled for May 26th at PETCO Park in San Diego, CA at 8:10 PM UTC. Fans can catch all the action live on YES Network.

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