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Unfinished October Business: King Eyes Deeper Playoff Run
30 Sep
Summary
- Michael King seeks to pitch more than one inning in the playoffs.
- The Padres' bullpen is considered a team strength for the postseason.
- Bullpen games significantly impacted the Padres' recent playoff exits.
Michael King looks to make a significant impact in the upcoming playoffs, aiming to pitch more than a single inning. He highlighted the "unfinished business" from last year's postseason appearance at Wrigley Field. King's performance is crucial for the Padres, especially as they prepare for a best-of-three series where bullpen rest is paramount.
King set personal bests in innings and starts during the recent season. His past playoff performances, including an impressive outing against the Braves in 2024, demonstrate his potential. King re-signed with the Padres with the explicit goal of achieving deeper playoff success.
The Padres' offense showed its readiness by scoring 10 runs against seven Diamondbacks relievers, securing home-field advantage for the wild-card games. This offensive success against relief pitchers serves as a crucial test for the postseason.
Bullpen games have historically impacted the Padres' playoff outcomes, notably in their 2024 NLDS loss to the Dodgers and last year's NL Wild Card Series defeat against the Cubs. The team's strategic lineup adjustments, like Jackson Merrill hitting cleanup, reflect a flexible approach to facing opposing bullpens.
Fans can catch the Padres' wild-card games on Peacock and NBCSN. The broadcast will feature play-by-play announcer Dave Flemming, alongside analysts Mark Grant and Jim Deshaies, and former Cy Young winner Clayton Kershaw.
