San Diego Padres perfect opponent for Arizona Diamondbacks youngsters

The Arizona Diamondbacks have found the team they want to face when they have a young pitcher making their first major league start – the San Diego Padres.

It all began back on August 14, 2021. Tyler Gilbert made his first major league start, and just his fourth appearance overall, against the Padres. He then joined an exclusive group of pitchers as he became the fourth pitcher in major league history to fire a no-hitter in his first start.

San Diego Padres right foe for Arizona Diamondbacks’ young pitchers

Gilbert was not the only youngster to fare well against the Padres. Back on September 5, Ryne Nelson made his first major league start as he faced the Padres. He lasted seven shutout innings, allowing just four hits as he struck out seven without issuing a walk.

On Thursday, it was Drey Jameson’s turn. As was the case with Nelson, he was making his major league debut. And just like Nelson, he fired seven shutout innings, allowing two hits and a walk as he struck out five.

In theory, the Padres are not the team that pitchers would want to make their major league debut against. With the likes of Juan Soto, Manny Machado, and Josh Bell in the lineup, they should be a formidable opponent. Instead, the Padres have been one of the more disappointing teams in the game, desperately clinging to the final Wild Card berth.

Despite those issues, these games are also a confidence booster for the Diamondbacks. They are hoping to contend next season and the Padres are one of those teams they will need to hurdle in the standings. Having those young pitchers find this much success against a dangerous team only helps that belief.

The Arizona Diamondbacks have found a perfect way for their young arms to have successful debuts – have them face the San Diego Padres.