Padres get on top fast in all-around rout of Cubs

On September 29, 2026, the San Diego Padres showcased an overwhelming performance in Game 1 of the National League Wild Card Series against the Chicago Cubs. The Padres dominated the game, scoring eight runs while the Cubs managed only zero. This performance marks the largest postseason shutout in the team's history. Starting pitcher Michael King maintained a no-hitter until the seventh inning before it was broken up.

Fernando Tatis Jr., the Padres' star player, showcased his offensive prowess by hitting a home run on the first pitch he saw and going yard once more in the inning that followed. The offensive explosion was led by the Padres' "big four" – Bogaerts, Machado, Jackson Merrill, and Tatis – who combined to go 8-for-14 (.571) with two walks, six RBIs, and six runs scored.

Relief pitcher Kevin Gausman, who struggles with walks, allowed nine runs across nine innings for the Cubs, his worst performance of the season. In contrast, Padres' reliever Pivetta has been dominant since returning from the injured list, posting a 1.45 ERA in four starts. If Pivetta can maintain his current form against the Cubs, it would significantly benefit the Padres in their quest for a series sweep.