Mariners vs Padres battle at Petco Park during the Vedder Cup

Mariners vs Padres: The Rivalry Renewed — Vedder Cup 2025

The Mariners vs Padres series returns in May 2025, bringing new energy to this growing MLB rivalry. With both teams fighting for crucial divisional positions, the Vedder Cup takes on extra significance this season. Let's dive into recent performances, projected lineups, pitching matchups, and everything you need to know to follow this exciting battle.

Series Preview & Recent Form

The Seattle Mariners enter the series leading the AL West, but they've faced recent struggles due to injuries and a challenging stretch on the road. The San Diego Padres, meanwhile, sit just behind the Dodgers in a tight NL West race and bring a hot offense into the matchup. Fan anticipation is high, as the "Vedder Cup"—now an official part of MLB's Rivalry Weekend—adds both tradition and new stakes to the proceedings.

For detailed game previews and lineup discussions, check out Lookout Landing's series breakdown, which highlights the unique energy and player matchups shaping this year's Mariners vs Padres showdowns.

Key Players and Matchups

Seattle Mariners:

• Logan Evans will take the mound for Game 1, making his fourth career start. Evans has shown promise, mixing cutters, sweepers, and sinkers to productive results. Offensively, look for J.P. Crawford, Jorge Polanco, Julio Rodríguez, and Cal Raleigh to set the tone.

San Diego Padres:

• Stephen Kolek starts for the Padres, entering with an impressive 0.00 ERA through 14.1 MLB 2025 innings. Expect to see big contributions from Fernando Tatis Jr., Manny Machado, and Xander Bogaerts, all of whom have been on hot streaks recently.

The San Diego Union-Tribune offers a fantastic breakdown of each team’s trends and pitching rotation for the three-game series. Their analysis covers everything from OPS leaders to injury updates affecting both clubs.

Expected Starting Lineups

Seattle Mariners vs Padres probable starters (Game 1):

• Mariners: J.P. Crawford, Jorge Polanco, Julio Rodríguez, Cal Raleigh, Randy Arozarena, Rowdy Tellez, Leody Taveras, Dylan Moore, Ben Williamson.
• Padres: Fernando Tatis Jr., Luis Arraez, Manny Machado, Jackson Merrill, Xander Bogaerts, Gavin Sheets, Jake Cronenworth, Jason Heyward, Elias Díaz.

Seattle's offense began the year strong but has faced issues with strikeouts and injuries (notably, Crawford’s shoulder tightness). San Diego's lineup is loaded, and their top bats are consistently producing, though home run power (outside of Tatis) lags behind some NL rivals.

Curious about exact player stats, bullpen performance, or recent win/loss streaks? Explore Union-Tribune’s in-depth Padres vs Mariners scouting report for charts and advanced numbers.

How to Watch Mariners vs Padres

Wondering where to catch the action? Friday’s opening game will be streamed exclusively on Apple TV+. Mariners and Padres fans must have an Apple TV+ subscription, though new users can access a 7-day free trial. For the broadcast schedule, lineup insights, and additional viewing tips, visit Sodo Mojo’s how-to-watch guide. Notably, Mariners star Julio Rodríguez will be mic’d up for the in-game broadcast, offering fans a unique perspective directly from the field.

Series Stakes and the Vedder Cup

Beyond regular season implications, the winner of this year’s series will claim the Vedder Cup trophy and a guitar provided by Pearl Jam's Eddie Vedder, who famously lived in both San Diego and Seattle. Each game could impact both teams' playoff hopes, making every inning count.

Conclusion: Don’t Miss This Must-Watch Series

With playoff seeds at stake, rising stars on the field, and a storied rivalry at its heart, Mariners vs Padres promises one of the most compelling matchups of May 2025. Whether you're a lifelong fan or new to the rivalry, be sure to tune in and follow these teams as they chase MLB glory.

For more updates, analysis, and lineup news throughout the series, check out authoritative local coverage at Lookout Landing and San Diego Union-Tribune—and prepare for a thrilling weekend of baseball!