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Padres' Reliever Wandy Peralta Unexpectedly Starts Crucial Dodgers Matchup
16 Aug
Summary
- Padres reliever Wandy Peralta to make rare start
- Filling in for injured Michael King in pivotal series
- Matchup could have major implications on NL West race
On August 16th, 2025, the San Diego Padres will turn to reliever Wandy Peralta to make a rare start in their series opener against the Los Angeles Dodgers. This unexpected move comes after Michael King, the Padres' originally scheduled starter, was placed on the 15-day injured list due to left knee inflammation.
King had just returned from a previous IL stint for right shoulder inflammation, and he believes he "pushed it a little too hard in the ramp-up." An MRI revealed no structural damage, and he hopes to return to the mound later this month.
In the meantime, Peralta will make his second career start, his first since August 2021 when he was with the New York Yankees. The 10-year veteran has been a solid contributor out of the Padres' bullpen this season, posting a 3.13 ERA in 54 appearances.
The Padres are currently 1 game ahead of the Dodgers in the NL West standings, making this an important series with major divisional implications. Peralta will look to set the tone and help the Padres maintain their slim lead as they prepare for a crucial 10-day stretch against their rivals.
