Kansas City (38-39) at San Diego (41-35)
- When: Jun 22 2025, 4:10 PM
- Where: PETCO Park, San Diego
- Where to watch: SDPA
Royals vs. Padres – Game Betting Preview & Prediction
Moneyline: Kansas City -112 | Total: 8.5
San Diego Padres Preview
The Padres may have dropped seven of their last ten, but manager Mike Shildt is spinning it with glass-half-full optimism. After a much-needed 5-1 win on Saturday, San Diego finds itself with a chance to grab its first series win in two weeks.
The offense got a boost from Fernando Tatis Jr.’s clutch three-run bomb, and Dylan Cease gave them length, something they’ve lacked lately. With set-up man Jason Adam logging an MLB-leading 38 appearances, the bullpen’s been overworked but got a breather Saturday.
Sunday’s starter, Randy Vasquez (3-4, 3.70 ERA), is reliable for around five innings. He’s not likely to go deep, but he’s held his own against KC before, going five innings in a win earlier this month.
If the Padres want to stack wins and build some momentum, it starts with not giving away early leads and getting clean innings from their bullpen.
Kansas City Royals Preview
After riding a four-game win streak into Saturday, the Royals’ offense finally hit a wall, scoring just one run on four hits. Dylan Cease and the Padres’ bullpen shut them down, snapping the hot streak.
Seth Lugo (4-5, 3.05 ERA) takes the mound for the Royals in a revenge spot against his old squad. Lugo is coming off a dominant 9-strikeout performance against the Rangers, and he’s posted excellent numbers all season. He’s 2-0 with a 3.00 ERA lifetime vs. the Padres, mostly as a reliever, but he’s more than capable of outdueling Vasquez here.
The Royals have mashed away from home, but Kauffman remains a black hole for home runs. With one of the most pitcher-friendly parks in baseball, they’ll need to grind out runs the old-fashioned way on Sunday.
Final Prediction
Expect a tight, low-scoring matchup where pitching sets the tone. Lugo has the edge on the mound, and KC’s offense should bounce back just enough.
Score Prediction: Royals 4, Padres 3
Pick: Kansas City ML (-112)
Total: Under 8.5 (-105)
- MLB Odds source: MyBookie Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
