Padres vs Dodgers Picks and Prediction – 6/19/2025

The San Diego Padres (39–32) travel East for an NL West showdown with the Los Angeles Dodgers (44–29). This late-night Wednesday tilt sees Emmet Sheehan making his much-anticipated season debut for the Dodgers, while the Padres counter with impressive rookie Stephen Kolek (3–2, 3.50 ERA). With playoff positioning at stake in this rivalry series, the tone is set for an intense battle under the lights. Get in on the action with our free MLB picks.

Kolek has quickly emerged as a key storyline in San Diego’s rotation. After a dominant scoreless debut on May 4 and a complete-game shutout on May 10, he’s settled into a strong rookie line. His 3.50 ERA and 34 strikeouts in limited action suggest big-time potential—and he’ll test the Dodgers’ lineup with low pitch counts and rising confidence. Offensively, the Padres have slumps and highs—they’ve won only 2 of their last 6 games but flaunt a potent lineup featuring Fernando Tatís Jr., Manny Machado, and Xander Bogaerts poised to break through. 

The Dodgers are activating Emmet Sheehan from the 60-day IL to make his first start of the season—an intriguing gamble on a talented young arm. While he’s yet to prove himself in-game, LA’s rotation depth gives them room to experiment. Backing Sheehan is a deep Dodgers offense led by Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts, and Freddie Freeman, which has already powered through tough stretches and remains a top-tier group. L.A. also enters this midweek game 4–1 in their last five and leading the NL West.

This one hinges on matchup of debut nerves versus rising rookie confidence. With two strong lineups, we are inclined to back the slightly more reliable arm of Kolek. Facing this San Diego lineup after a long layoff is a tall task. We like the value on San DIego to win this one 5-3.