The San Diego Padres fell short against the Chicago Cubs in the National League Wild Card round last year, but in 2026, they will have the Friar Faithful behind them. While both ballclubs have certainly undergone notable changes, the biggest difference in this playoff series could wind up being the venue.
San Diego compiled a fantastic 51-30 record at home, which is tied with the Los Angeles Dodgers for fourth-best in MLB, and could therefore be better equipped to withstand the Cubs' elite lineup and defense. Ken Rosenthal believes Petco Park will play a huge role this week.
“I don't know that people realize what a home-field advantage Petco has become for the Padres,” the longtime reporter and writer said on the “Foul Territory” podcast. “In their last 32 home games, the Padres, who of course got hot in the second half, they were 26-6.”
Article Continues Below"I don't see the Cubs surviving this."@Ken_Rosenthal believes home-field advantage and the Padres' lights-out bullpen will be too much for Chicago. pic.twitter.com/mIH8knrBUi
— Foul Territory (@FoulTerritoryTV) September 28, 2026
San Diego has a knack for becoming a trendy dark horse pick in the postseason. Strong finishes and stout bullpens are a big reason why, but the franchise is still seeking its first NL pennant since 1998. Can a relentless home crowd, rejuvenated offense and Mason Miller-led relief unit finally comprise the magical formula?
The Padres remain an enigma. Manny Machado has vastly underachieved in the playoffs, the starting pitching rotation is still a question mark and the team's 40-41 road record could eventually become an issue. But Rosenthal clearly thinks this group has enough firepower to vanquish the incoming Cubs.
San Diego has had a year to reflect on its Wild Card defeat in Wrigley Field, and now fans will have the opportunity to unload all that frustration on the opposition. The Padres' quest for redemption begins on Tuesday at 10 p.m. ET.