The rivalry is back — bigger, louder, and more anticipated than ever.
For the first time this season, the San Diego Padres are set to face off against their longtime rivals, the Los Angeles Dodgers, in a high-stakes three-game series at Petco Park. With playoff memories still fresh from last year’s heartbreaker, emotions are running high on both sides.
Whether you’re a die-hard Friar fan or just tagging along for the ballpark vibes, here’s everything you need to know before heading into the ballpark.
What to Know Before You Go
The Big Picture
This isn’t just another series. It’s a chance for the Padres to start turning the page on last year’s playoff disappointment — and fans are showing up ready for it.
Petco Park has been sold out for every recent Padres-Dodgers matchup, and this week’s games are no exception. If you’ve got tickets, get excited — this is baseball at its best.
Who’s Playing?
Both teams are bringing their A-games.
On the field, expect to see stars like:
- Fernando Tatis Jr.
- Manny Machado
- Luis Arraez
- Shohei Ohtani
- Mookie Betts
- Freddie Freeman
As for pitching:
- Monday : Nick Pivetta (Padres) vs. Dustin May (Dodgers)
- Tuesday : Dylan Cease (Padres)
- Wednesday : Randy Vasquez (Padres)
The Dodgers’ rotation beyond Monday is still being finalized, but you can bet they’ll bring their best arms for this showdown.
Getting There: Parking & Transit Tips
Driving & Parking
If you’re driving, parking near Petco Park fills up fast. Here’s what to do:
- Buy a pre-paid parking pass through the Padres’ preferred lots
- Use an app like SpotHero to reserve a spot ahead of time
- Avoid last-minute stress by planning early.
Public Transit
San Diego’s MTS is boosting trolley service during the series, making it easy and affordable to skip the traffic.
- Orange and Green Lines drop you off near the Gaslamp Quarter entrance
- Blue Line puts you close to the Tailgate Lot
You can also park at any MTS Park & Ride lot for free and ride downtown hassle-free.
Gate Times & First Pitch
All stadium gates open 90 minutes before game time , so arrive early if you want to grab food or take in the pre-game buzz.
- Monday & Tuesday : First pitch at 6:40 p.m.
- Wednesday : First pitch at 1:10 p.m.
Member-only gates open about 30 minutes before general admission , so keep that in mind if you have club access.
Bag Policy & Stadium Rules
Petco Park has a clear bag policy , so make sure you follow these rules:
- Bags larger than 5” x 7” must be transparent
- Clear bags must not exceed 12” x 6” x 12”
- Small clutches, fanny packs (5” x 7” or smaller), and medical/infant bags are allowed
If you’re bringing food or drinks:
- Food must be wrapped or in soft-sided containers
- One sealed water bottle (plastic only), juice, milk, or ADA-approved liquids allowed
- Reusable bottles up to 1 liter are okay — as long as they’re empty when you enter
- No outside alcohol permitted
Items Not Allowed
To keep everyone safe, here’s a quick list of what stays home:
- Loudspeakers or sound systems
- Firearms or weapons
- Cameras with lenses over 6”
- Drones or UAVs
- Laser pointers
- Smoking devices (including vapes in some cases)
- Glass containers
- For a full list, visit petcopark.com .
Food, Fun, and Fan Experience
Petco Park continues to impress with its mix of local eats, craft beer, and interactive fan zones. Whether you’re grabbing a bite at the KitchenAid Alley or snapping photos at the Tony Gwynn statue, there’s always something going on between innings.
Don’t miss the local family flying a giant Padres flag from a drone — it’s become a fan favorite and a must-see moment.
This Padres vs. Dodgers series is more than just baseball — it’s a cultural event. With playoff energy already building and every seat filled, this is the kind of game-day experience that makes San Diego special.
Make sure you plan ahead, pack smart, and get ready for one unforgettable week at Petco Park.
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