Padres Secure Spring Victory Over Cubs as Roster Decisions Loom

MESA, Ariz. — The San Diego Padres defeated the Chicago Cubs 5-1 Friday afternoon at Sloan Park, showcasing strong performances as roster cuts approach.

Tyler Wade led the offensive charge with a bunt single, a walk, and a home run. His contributions are crucial as he competes for a potential final roster spot. “I’m just trying to make a good impression,” Wade said after the game.

Brandon Lockridge, also in contention for a bench position, continued his impressive spring by going 2-for-3 and stealing a base. He has now hit safely in 15 of 18 games this spring and holds a batting average of .390, with 16 hits in 41 at-bats.

Veteran Yuli Gurriel, likely to secure a bench role and designated hitter duties, recorded one hit in three at-bats. Connor Joe, a Poway High School and USD product, had a hit as well, maintaining a .324 average and an impressive .477 on-base percentage in 44 plate appearances.

Outfielder Oscar Gonzalez, who boasts considerable major league experience, added another hit, finishing the day 1-for-2 and entering the game with a spring batting average of .385 (20-for-52).

On the pitching front, Michael King shined with five scoreless innings, allowing only one hit and striking out four. He threw a total of 82 pitches to finish the spring strong ahead of his opening-day start. “I felt really good out there today,” King remarked.

Randy Vásquez allowed one run — a home run — over four innings, in performance that may determine his place in the starting rotation. Manager Mike Shildt noted that Vásquez’s performance was “crisper” than his previous outing.

Amidst the competition, Jason Heyward received a warm welcome from the 16,020 fans, taking a moment to acknowledge them before his first at-bat. Heyward, who played seven seasons for the Cubs and was part of their 2016 World Series-winning team, expressed appreciation for the reception.

The Cubs, who began their season with two games in Tokyo against the Dodgers, fielded a lineup with only one regular player, Nico Hoerner, who remained in Arizona during the trip.

Looking ahead, left-hander Kyle Hart is set to start against the Guardians at 1:05 p.m. in Goodyear, Ariz. Meanwhile, Dylan Cease will take the mound against the Reds at 1:10 p.m. in Peoria, further solidifying his position as a leading candidate for the second game of the season.