Overview
- The Padres completed a two-game Wild Card sweep, winning 8-0 on Sept. 30 and 4-1 on Oct. 1 to eliminate the Cubs and advance to the National League Division Series.
- Michael King carried a no-hit bid into the seventh inning in Game 1 and finished seven shutout innings with eight strikeouts, setting the tone for San Diego's pitching across the series.
- Fernando Tatis Jr. opened Game 1 with a first-pitch leadoff home run and later beat a throwing error to score on heads-up baserunning that electrified Petco Park.
- San Diego's depth showed in Game 2 when Gavin Sheets hit a pinch-hit two-run homer and five Padres pitchers combined on a one-run five-hitter while 20-year-old Ethan Salas became the youngest catcher to drive in a run for the club in the postseason.
- Chicago's league-leading offense was held to one run and eight hits over the two games, giving the Padres momentum and two days' rest before a road start in Milwaukee where pitching plans and bullpen usage will shape the NLDS matchup.