The San Diego Padres secured a decisive 7-0 victory over the Chicago Cubs in Game 1 of the National League Wild Card Series at Petco Park on September 29, 2026. This win gives the Padres a 1-0 lead in the best-of-three series.
Padres' starting pitcher Michael King delivered an outstanding performance, pitching seven scoreless innings and allowing only three hits. His command on the mound kept the Cubs' offense at bay throughout the game.
Offensively, the Padres were led by Fernando Tatis Jr., who went 3-for-4 with a home run and three RBIs. Manny Machado also contributed significantly, adding a two-run double in the fifth inning that extended the Padres' lead.
The Cubs struggled to generate offense against King's dominant pitching. Their best scoring opportunity came in the fourth inning with runners on first and second, but King induced an inning-ending double play to escape the jam.
This victory marks a strong start for the Padres in the postseason, especially considering their previous elimination by the Cubs in last year's Wild Card Series. The teams will face off again in Game 2, where the Cubs will look to even the series and force a decisive Game 3.