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What to know ahead of Cubs-Padres Wild Card Series matchup

Following a dramatic postseason clash last year, the Cubs and Padres are set to collide once again in the National League Wild Card Series, with the opener scheduled at Petco Park and the victor advancing to face the Brewers. Padres manager Craig Stammen noted the high caliber of their upcoming opponents, highlighting the need for his squad to play their best baseball.

San Diego will send Michael King to the mound for the first contest, while Chicago's pitching options feature Matthew Boyd and Kevin Gausman, though the latter's readiness is being monitored due to shoulder soreness. Additional rotation candidates for the Cubs include Clay Holmes, David Peterson, and Shota Imanaga, while Nick Pivetta, Robbie Ray, and Walker Buehler fill out the remaining possibilities for the Padres.

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