Buehler Takes Hill as Surging Padres Open Series Against Struggling Mets

The San Diego Padres arrive at this series opener riding a wave of momentum that began on July 24th, having compiled a 17-5 record over the past 24 days. Sitting nine games above .500 and in second place in the NL West, the Padres appear positioned to secure a postseason berth, though they remain unlikely to catch the division-leading Dodgers. Their resurgence has made them a compelling investment after becoming a focus point at the All-Star Break.

Walker Buehler takes the mound for San Diego with a 7-5 record and 4.88 ERA through the 2024 season, accumulating 100 strikeouts across 1.43 WHIP. His performance has proved streaky—a dominant June yielded just five earned runs across 26.1 innings over five starts, while July saw him surrender 16 earned runs in nine innings. August has brought improvement, with five earned runs allowed over 14.1 innings in three starts. Mets batters have struggled against Buehler, posting a .211 average in 38 at-bats.

The New York Mets counter with Nolan McLean, who holds an 8-8 record with a 3.42 ERA and 1.13 WHIP while striking out 159 batters over 136.2 innings. McLean has pitched better on the road, posting a 4.19 home ERA with elevated home run totals at Citi Field. He has recorded quality starts in seven of his past eight outings, allowing more than two earned runs in just two of those appearances. San Diego hitters have managed only a .176 average against him in limited at-bats.

The Mets enter the contest 13 games under .500 despite possessing a roster that appears competitive on paper. Reports indicate the organization remains open to trading star shortstop Francisco Lindor amid the disappointing season. Neither team has distinguished itself offensively, but the Padres’ recent run and favorable matchup positioning presents a compelling case for backing the visiting squad.